A new method developed by scientists in the UK could change how brain tumours are diagnosed. Instead of waiting weeks for lab results, patients may soon get accurate answers during surgery itself. The innovation comes from the University of Nottingham, where researchers used a fast DNA-reading technology called nanopore sequencing. This technique could mean quicker treatment, better decisions during surgery, and faster access to clinical trials.
Faster Diagnosis Using DNA Technology
The new method works by reading DNA in real-time. Scientists guide the DNA strands through small, electrically charged holes—called nanopores. As the DNA moves through, it disrupts the electric current in specific ways. Special software reads these changes and compares them to known brain tumour profiles.
This process helps doctors identify the type of tumour quickly. Traditionally, patients wait up to three weeks for full genetic results. With nanopore sequencing, that wait time could drop to just a few hours—or even minutes in some cases.
Results Within Hours—Not Weeks
In recent clinical trials, the system showed very promising results. Out of all the fresh brain tumour samples tested, 90% were correctly identified within 24 hours. Even more impressive, 76% were accurately diagnosed within just one hour.
These fast results can help surgeons make better choices in the operating room. For example, if the test confirms a more aggressive tumour, a surgeon might remove more tissue immediately. This quick feedback could also make it possible to begin targeted treatments during surgery itself.
Affordable and Ready for Use
Each test costs about £400, which is similar to the price of standard genetic tests. But unlike traditional methods, the new process delivers answers much faster. That speed could save time, reduce hospital stays, and even improve outcomes.
Faster diagnoses also mean quicker access to clinical trials. Many of these trials require detailed information about a patient’s tumour. With this method, patients could join the right studies sooner, opening the door to new treatment options.
“This could be the start of a new era in brain tumour care,” said one of the researchers involved in the study. “We’re now able to diagnose and act in a matter of hours, not weeks.”
A Leap Forward in Personalized Cancer Care
Experts say this is a big step toward more personalized cancer treatment. Being able to test tumours while a patient is still in surgery means doctors can tailor care right away. It also supports real-time decision-making, something that hasn’t been possible until now.
Though the research is still being tested in more hospitals, the early results are strong. If approved for regular use, the method could become part of routine brain surgery. That would be a major win for both patients and doctors.
The team at the University of Nottingham is working with other hospitals to expand testing. They hope to include more tumour types and explore how the method works in different surgical settings.
If future trials go well, we may see this technology adopted across Europe and beyond. Its low cost, speed, and accuracy make it an attractive option for modern hospitals.
A new DNA-based technique from the University of Nottingham allows doctors to identify brain tumours in real-time during surgery. With a 90% accuracy rate in under 24 hours—and most within just one hour—this tool could revolutionize cancer care by enabling faster treatment decisions and earlier access to trials. The method is fast, affordable, and could soon become standard practice.