Scientists from the University of Sheffield have invented a new test that detects oral cancer through a toothbrush that collects cells from the patient's oral cavity. What is noteworthy, the test shows the result in less than 20 minutes. The principle of operation is as follows: the cells collected by a brush are placed on the chip, and the latter is already inserted into the analyzing device, which produces a result in 8-10 minutes, writes The Times of India.

The research team led by Professor Martin Tornilla has already begun to conduct clinical trials on patients of the Charles Clifford Dental Clinic. The goal is to make technology as sensitive as possible. This development is very important, because if you determine the cancer of the oral cavity at an early stage, it is possible to successfully treat, and the survival rate is 90%.

Now the technology is a little more detailed. Disposable nano-bio-chips with cell samples that have the size of a credit card are inserted into a special analyzer that operates on batteries. As soon as the chip is inside, the cells from its surface are washed off and enter the reaction chamber.

Further contact occurs with biomarkers, which react only with certain types of affected cells. Also the device uses two light-emitting diode. Depending on how the cells react to illumination, experts determine the result of the analysis.

The technology is simple and inexpensive. According to scientists, its widespread implementation will not only save many lives, shorten the waiting time for analysis results, but also save the health system huge financial resources.

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