Innovative Approach for Non-Invasive Bladder Cancer Detection and Monitoring

Raphaël Canadas.

Universidade do Porto, Portugal.

Bladder cancer is a major health challenge that often returns and therefore requires regular monitoring. Cystoscopy, the current standard for diagnosis and follow-up, is invasive, uncomfortable for patients and costly, while cytology often provides false negatives. This project aims to develop a more accessible and accurate method for diagnosing and monitoring bladder cancer using a simple urine test.

The research team will isolate and concentrate rare cancer cells shed into urine using acoustofluidic enrichment, a technique based on acoustic waves. They will then capture detailed information on cell morphology and biophysical properties through label-free imaging. These data will be analysed using artificial intelligence to identify patterns associated with bladder cancer, disease progression and risk. The team is also developing a platform designed for integration into clinical workflows.

This approach could reduce the need for repeated invasive procedures, make surveillance more accessible and comfortable for patients, improve efficiency and lower healthcare costs, while also improving staging and risk assessment. It may also pave the way for similar applications in other cancers and liquid biopsies.

• Hélder Oliveira, Instituto de Engenharia de Sistemas e Computadores, Tecnologia e Ciência - INESC TEC, Portugal.

STAGE 2