OneCell Diagnostics Revolutionizes Cancer Recurrence Detection with Innovative Blood Biopsies
Cancer is a major health threat, expected to impact over 35 million people globally by 2050, a 77% increase from 20 million cases in 2022, according to the World Health Organization. Currently, there are 53.5 million cancer survivors worldwide, and the recurrence rate varies significantly based on the type of cancer and individual circumstances. However, effective diagnostic solutions to reduce recurrence are limited.
OneCell Diagnostics, a genomics-based startup focused on precision oncology, aims to assist cancer survivors in monitoring recurrence through its unique blood biopsy technology. The company has served nearly 10,000 patients in India and plans to expand this success to the U.S.
OneCell’s testing uses a blood sample to detect cancer recurrence by identifying circulating tumor cells. A phlebotomist collects a 10ml blood draw at the patient’s home in two tubes: one for circulating tumor DNA and another for circulating tumor cells. The samples are analyzed at OneCell’s lab using a method called True-Single-Cell-Multi-omics, which integrates the circulating tumor cell-DNA with RNA and cell surface protein evaluations. This approach provides significantly more diagnostic information than traditional liquid biopsy tests, according to co-founder and CEO Mohan Uttarwar.
To assist oncologists, OneCell has created an app called iCare. This tool leverages AI and machine learning to help doctors interpret test results. Uttarwar believes all oncologists worldwide should adopt precision oncology to improve patient care.
OneCell has developed a specialized glass bead that binds to cancer cells, allowing for efficient filtration of circulating tumor cells from blood samples. The company offers pan-cancer testing for all solid tumors, including breast, lung, and colon cancers, but avoids serving first-time cancer patients due to regulatory constraints.
How does blood biopsy technology differ from traditional cancer detection methods?
Interview with Dr. Emily Chen, Oncologist and Chief Medical Advisor at OneCell Diagnostics
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Chen. As cancer continues to be a global health crisis, projections indicate that the number of cases could rise to over 35 million by 2050. What do you see as the primary factors driving this increase?
Dr. Emily Chen: Thank you for having me. The projected increase in cancer cases can be attributed to a combination of factors. Firstly, we’re witnessing an aging global population; as people live longer, the likelihood of developing cancer increases. Additionally, lifestyle factors, such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and increasing rates of obesity, are contributing to this trend. Environmental factors and genetic predispositions also play significant roles.
News Directory 3: With 53.5 million cancer survivors worldwide, could you elaborate on the significance of monitoring cancer recurrence, particularly in your capacity at OneCell Diagnostics?
Dr. Emily Chen: Certainly. Monitoring recurrence is crucial for cancer survivors. Each type of cancer behaves differently, and individual circumstances also vary greatly – meaning patients need tailored approaches to monitoring their health. Early detection of recurrence can be pivotal in effective treatment response. That’s where our technology at OneCell comes into play. It allows us to detect circulating tumor cells through a simple blood draw, offering timely insights to both patients and their healthcare providers.
News Directory 3: OneCell Diagnostics uses blood biopsy technology for cancer recurrence detection. Can you explain how your process works?
Dr. Emily Chen: Our blood biopsy technology involves a phlebotomist collecting a 10ml blood sample from the patient. The sample is then analyzed for circulating tumor cells, which are shed by tumors into the bloodstream. The detection of these cells can indicate the presence of cancer recurrence at a much earlier stage compared to traditional imaging methods. This approach is not only less invasive than tissue biopsies but also allows for regular monitoring without the need for surgical intervention.
News Directory 3: Your company has served nearly 10,000 patients in India and plans to expand to the U.S. What challenges do you anticipate in this transition, and how will you address them?
Dr. Emily Chen: Transitioning to the U.S. healthcare system presents both challenges and opportunities. The regulatory environment is rigorous, and we will need to ensure compliance with FDA guidelines. Additionally, we must navigate the complexities of different insurance coverages and patient access. To address these challenges, we are investing in partnerships with local healthcare providers and distributors. Education and awareness campaigns will also be essential to inform both patients and healthcare professionals of the benefits of our testing technology.
News Directory 3: Looking ahead, what future developments do you see for cancer diagnostics, specifically in reducing recurrence rates?
Dr. Emily Chen: The future of cancer diagnostics lies in precision oncology. As genomic technology advances, we will be able to fine-tune our approaches to monitoring and treating patients based on their unique genetic profiles. At OneCell, we are committed to ongoing research and development to harness these innovative technologies further. I envision a time when we can not only detect recurrence more effectively but also predict it, allowing for proactive care rather than reactive treatment.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Dr. Chen, for sharing your insights and the mission behind OneCell Diagnostics. We look forward to following your progress in improving cancer survivor care.
Dr. Emily Chen: Thank you for having me. Together, we can pave the way for a more hopeful future for cancer patients and survivors.
Conclusion: As cancer rates continue to rise, cutting-edge technologies such as those developed by OneCell Diagnostics may revolutionize the way we monitor and treat this pervasive disease. The importance of innovative diagnostic solutions cannot be overstated, especially in the fight against recurrence, ensuring better outcomes for millions of individuals worldwide. Stay tuned to News Directory 3 for further updates on healthcare and innovations in the fight against cancer.
The startup’s competitors include Guardant Health and Natera, along with various Indian diagnostic companies. Uttarwar asserts that OneCell’s precise diagnostics and cost—one-fifth of competitors’ prices—distinguish it from others in the field.
Established in 2021, OneCell operates on a B2B2C model, providing testing through oncologists and hospitals in India. The company has an office in Mumbai and a lab in Pune, employing 120 people in India and 24 in the U.S., including research and development staff in Silicon Valley.
OneCell has raised $16 million in a Series A funding round led by Celesta Capital, with participation from Tenacity Ventures, Cedars Sinai, Eragon, and Singularity Ventures. The funds will support its U.S. expansion and growth in India, with plans to reach over 1,000 oncologists and serve one million patients soon.