New Microfluidic Device Helps Detect Tumor Cells

Circulating tumor cells (individual cells that detach from primary tumors) can flow though the blood system and be responsible for tumor metastasis (the spreading of cancer in other parts of the body). A group of scientists recently developed a microfluidic chip able to capture circulating tumor cells in clusters of two to 30 cells. This device may be a valid alternative to the use of animals for studying circulating tumor cells and can help detect these cells in patients affected by several types of cancer, thus representing a valid tool for the diagnosis of tumor metastasis.