KVAL: Blood-based test for early detection of lung cancer

Lung cancer continues to be the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Symptoms generally manifest at a late stage and therefore the disease has poor prognosis. Liquid biopsies quantify molecules in circulation, including those that may be derived from tumors and their interplay with the body, and thus these liquid biopsies may have utility as early detection biomarkers. Using samples and data from the largest biobank in Norway, the Janus Serum Bank, we have identified RNAs predictive of lung cancer 10 years earlier than diagnosis under usual care. We are aiming to demonstrate that these RNAs, evaluated together as a multimarker molecular diagnostic assay, can be implemented as a blood-based screening test for lung cancer, saving lives and treatment costs. This panel could be used either as a stand-alone test or in combination with imaging such as low dose CT technology. Some crucial steps are needed to convince the scientific community, investors and the public that the results are valid and have the sensitivity and specificity needed in a clinical setting. To meet this requirement the project aims to validate the diagnostic performance of the biomarker panel in an independent sample set, strengthen IP, partner with potential industrial players and establish the business strategy and further development plan.