Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) are embarking on a groundbreaking project aimed at early cancer detection, capable of identifying over 30 types of Stage 1 cancer from the comfort of a patient’s home. This innovative endeavor received substantial support, with $26.7 million awarded in federal funding from the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H).
The proposed screening test is a multistep process that begins with the patient swallowing a bioengineered pill containing tumor sensors. These sensors are designed to react to low oxygen levels, acidity, and lactate in the body—common indicators of cancer. Once activated, the sensors release signals that indicate tumor presence and its specific tissue of origin, which are then excreted in urine. Following this, the patient conducts a urine test using a simple device that analyzes the results, identifying both the presence of a tumor and its location. The findings are subsequently transmitted via smartphone to a medical professional for further evaluation.
Principal investigator Rebecca Taylor, a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at CMU, emphasized the potential impact of this project. “If we can find solid tumors at Stage 1, they are significantly easier to treat. This project represents a major opportunity to reduce the toll of cancer,” she stated.
In collaboration with Burak Ozdoganlar, a co-leader of the research and the Associate Director of the Engineering Research Accelerator at CMU, Taylor explained the project’s innovative approach. The research team is developing various molecular sensors and studying their functionality across multiple laboratories. This collaborative effort includes seven institutions, each contributing specialized expertise to address the challenges of early cancer detection.
Transforming Cancer Treatment Through Home Testing
One of the pivotal goals of this research is to enable doctors to treat diseases at their most treatable stages. Taylor envisions a future where patients can receive annual screenings from home, offering peace of mind and early intervention possibilities. “Imagine receiving a result indicating no Stage 1 tumors have been detected, or if a tumor is found, it is small and manageable. This could significantly alter a patient’s health trajectory,” she remarked.
Ozdoganlar highlighted the broader implications of making early detection accessible. “If we can develop a test that individuals can use at home, the impact could extend to millions, as cancer touches numerous families,” he noted.
Trust remains a crucial element in the success of this project. Taylor pointed out that the primary engineering challenge lies in designing a device that is usable, reliable, and cost-effective. “The test must not only perform well but also communicate effectively with users and integrate seamlessly with their smartphones,” she said. Transparency regarding data handling and test reliability will be essential in establishing user confidence.
The research team is actively engaging with the community through surveys conducted with UPMC Hillman Cancer Center to assess practical needs and affordability. According to ARPA-H, the ultimate goal is to achieve a selling price of $100 for the test. “This will be a significant challenge, but we believe we have the insights necessary to make it feasible,” Taylor added.
The project commenced in October 2025, marking a critical step forward in the quest for innovative cancer detection methods. By integrating synthetic biological components with advanced sensing technologies, CMU aims to redefine the future of medical devices, making early cancer detection a reality for many.
As the project progresses, researchers remain committed to delivering a high-performance product that meets both user expectations and stringent cost requirements, paving the way for a transformative approach to cancer screening.
