Viome Life Sciences and Scripps Research have partnered to create a revolutionary at-home RNA screening test to identify precancerous colon polyps before they become colorectal cancer.
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The revolutionary method is aimed at enhancing early detection, particularly because colorectal cancer is increasingly on the rise among young adults. The alliance brings together Viome’s cutting-edge AI-powered RNA sequencing technology and the clinical expertise of Scripps Research, including their Calibr-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines and Scripps Health.
A large clinical trial for 1,000 patients is being launched this summer. The test, based on stool and saliva samples, will detect unique molecular signals that pinpoint advanced precancerous polyps, a step ahead of existing DNA-based in-home tests, which are not very sensitive to such early signs. The new RNA-based test, being non-invasive, inexpensive, and more sensitive, is likely to make screening for colorectal cancer available to more people.
“Our partnership with Viome is about turning cutting-edge science into practical medical solutions,” said Peter G. Schultz, Ph.D., President and CEO of Scripps Research, and President of Calibr-Skaggs. “This study could deliver a simple, at-home RNA test that empowers people to detect cancer risk early, without invasive procedures, and take action before cancer takes hold.”
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The project meets a vital need for enhanced screening methods since colorectal cancer continues to be among the top causes of cancer deaths globally. Detection early on drastically enhances treatment, but numerous individuals defer or skip conventional invasive examinations like colonoscopies.
By providing an easy-to-administer at-home test, Viome and Scripps Research intend to boost screening rates and eventually decrease mortality. “We think this partnership will change the way colon cancer is diagnosed and prevented,” Viome founder and executive chairman Naveen Jain said in a statement. He continued, “Using AI and RNA technology represents a new frontier in precision medicine that can save lives by detecting cancer earlier than ever before.” This test, if successful, would revolutionize routine screening practices and could become an important tool in preventive care.
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