Brazilian Scientists Develop High-Precision Blood Test for Early Breast Cancer Detection

Researchers in Brazil have developed a non-invasive blood test, known as RosalindTest®, designed for the early detection of breast cancer. The test analyzes circulating biomarkers in the blood to identify molecular signals associated with the disease, potentially detecting cancer in its initial stages before it becomes clinically apparent or visible via traditional imaging.

Initial testing of the assay indicates a high degree of accuracy, correctly differentiating between women with and without breast cancer approximately 95% of the time.

Molecular Mechanisms and Target Biomarkers

The development of RosalindTest® is based on research into how cancer cells activate specific genes to promote proliferation, growth, and survival. The test specifically targets two genes that are upregulated in low-oxygen tumor microenvironments: hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) and glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1).

By identifying and analyzing these specific biomarkers released by cancer cells into the bloodstream, the test can detect subtle indicators of the disease. The research was led by geneticist Beatriz da Costa Aguiar Alves Reis, PhD, and biomedical scientist Glaucia Raquel Luciano da Veiga, PhD.

Integration with Existing Screening Practices

The blood-based approach is intended to complement existing screening methods, such as mammography, rather than replace them. It is particularly positioned as a tool for individuals who have limited access to traditional screening facilities.

Early diagnosis is critical for improving patient outcomes. According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women globally, representing 30% of all new female cancer cases. In 2020, the WHO estimated there were 2.3 million new cases and over 685,000 deaths worldwide.

Complementary Research in Risk Stratification

Parallel to the development of biomarker-specific tests, other Brazilian research has explored the use of routine blood tests for risk assessment. A retrospective study published in May 2024 analyzed complete blood count (CBC) tests from 396,848 women aged 40 to 70 who underwent imaging or biopsies.

This research utilized a ridge regression model incorporating age, red blood cells, and the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio to stratify patients into four risk groups: high, moderate, average, and low. The high-risk group showed a relative ratio of breast cancer of 1.99, while the low-risk group showed 0.42.

The goal of this specific stratification model is to streamline prioritization in resource-limited environments, shifting from a broad population strategy toward personalized screening based on individual risk.

Public Health Implications in Brazil

The introduction of such diagnostic tools aims to address gaps in the Brazilian public healthcare system. Reports indicate that the Brazilian blood test for early detection is intended to become available through the Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS).

The necessity for improved early detection is underscored by contradictory findings in nationwide mammogram surveys and the ongoing challenge of managing late-stage diagnoses within the public health infrastructure.

• RosalindTest® targets HIF-1α and GLUT1 biomarkers.
• The test demonstrates approximately 95% accuracy in initial trials.
• The approach focuses on detecting cancer before it is visible on imaging.
• The goal is to provide a more accessible and convenient screening option.