This innovative test outperformed traditional DNA-based detection methods, showcasing its effectiveness across various cancer stages.

The RARE-seq method analyzes cell-free RNA in the bloodstream, capturing RNA fragments released from dead cells, including those from tumors.

Notably, RARE-seq can monitor treatment resistance arising from changes in cellular behavior rather than genetic mutations, broadening its diagnostic capabilities.

The study involved 437 plasma samples from 369 individuals, encompassing different cancer stages, benign conditions, and healthy controls.

Beyond cancer detection, the test has applications in identifying lung damage in healthy smokers and monitoring respiratory distress.

The research team developed techniques to filter out RNA from platelets, which can obscure cancer signals, allowing for analysis of both fresh and frozen blood samples.

Key advancements in the RARE-seq method include optimized blood collection, RNA extraction, and library preparation, enhancing detection accuracy.

Researchers at Stanford Medicine have developed a groundbreaking blood test called RARE-seq, which detects cancer-related RNA signatures with significantly enhanced sensitivity.

In clinical trials, RARE-seq identified cancer-related RNA in 101 out of 139 lung cancer patients, with detection rates increasing from 30% at stage I to 83% at stage IV.

RARE-seq also demonstrates the ability to track changes in tumor state and drug resistance, providing insights into treatment responses.

The findings were published in the journal Nature on April 16, 2025, with contributions from several prestigious institutions and support from multiple NIH grants.

These preliminary results suggest that RARE-seq could have broader applications in diagnosing both cancer and non-cancer conditions, pending further clinical trials.