Biotechnology advances enable non-invasive gene tracking and early cancer detection

Advancements in biotechnology and liquid biopsy are transforming disease monitoring and prevention. Researchers from MIT and the Broad Institute have developed a method to track gene activity in living cells without destroying them. By engineering cells to expel RNA-containing particles, scientists can observe biological processes like stem cell maturation or drug responses over time.

In oncology, a highly sensitive liquid biopsy test has been developed to detect multiple myeloma relapses. By identifying tumor DNA fragments in the blood, clinicians can anticipate relapses before symptoms appear. Studies coordinated by the Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre and the University of Navarra show that detecting such DNA can multiply the risk of tumor progression by eleven times.

Additionally, the rise of biohacking—utilizing AI, genetic sequencing, and wearable sensors—aims to extend human healthspan through personalized prevention. Meanwhile, in Mexico, the National Institute of Genomic Medicine (Inmegen) is working to integrate liquid biopsy into clinical practice to improve cancer diagnosis and follow-up through precision medicine.