Summary
Researchers in China studied the use of body-released chemicals, called volatile organic compounds (VOCs), to detect cancer early in mice. They found that these chemicals, which are released through urine, feces, and body odor, can provide clues to the presence of cancer before it fully develops. The study shows potential for noninvasive cancer screening methods, but more research is needed to see if the findings apply to humans.
Key Facts
- Researchers in China focused on how body-released chemicals can indicate early cancer presence.
- The chemicals studied are called volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
- VOCs can be detected in urine, feces, and body odor.
- The study involved inducing tumors in mice and monitoring these chemicals.
- They used a technique called gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to analyze the samples.
- Cancer signs appeared in urine at week 5 and progressed in odor and feces later.
- More research is needed to determine if this method works in humans.
