A BAHRAIN study has highlighted the possibility of early detection of cancerous tumours with up to 99.4 per cent accuracy through DNA sequencing.
The research by Bahrain University Information Technology scholar Marwa Assem Latif, published yesterday, employed a modern technology called Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). NGS is a technique that relies on artificial intelligence in converting genetic sequence data in the individual’s DNA into numbers and medical indicators.
“The results of the study showed the possibility of early detection of the location of cancerous tumours, and predicting the presence of these cells in the human body with a 99.4pc accuracy,” said the research paper.
In the study, which is a part of her Master’s degree, Ms Latif said cancerous tumours were often detected too late.
She focused her research on three types of tumours found in the colon, the lungs and in the breast.
“All the results were interpreted and validated,” said Ms Latif.
“Cancerous tumour is often not detected in its early stages, but rather after a long period of time, and therefore the treatment in this case is more complicated and sometimes not possible,” the study points out, adding that NGS could provide a major breakthrough by helping detect the type of cancer at an early stage.
The technical study was discussed by a committee constituting experts from the Bahrain University’s and Abu Dhabi University Professor as Dr Mohammed Ghazal as an external examiner.
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