Q-CANCER: development of a sample to result device for low cost, rapid tumour profiling

A histopathologist will soon be able to press a single button on a desktop device and, within minutes, receive a full genetic profile of a patient’s tumour from a standard tissue sample. Current tumour profiling requires sending samples to central labs, waiting days or weeks for results, and using expensive, multi-step processes. This delay can prolong patient anxiety and delay treatment decisions. The Q-CANCER project aims to eliminate that bottleneck by integrating sample preparation, DNA sequencing, and analysis into one automated, low-cost device. It uses proven microfluidic and nanotechnologies to handle formalin-fixed or fresh tissue, performing multiplex genotyping and tumour staging on the spot. If successful, the device would give pathologists a rapid molecular adjunct to their standard practice, enabling faster, more precise treatment choices. For patients, this means reduced waiting time and anxiety. For the NHS and other healthcare systems, it could cut the cost of treatment programmes by avoiding unnecessary or ineffective therapies. The technology is designed to slot directly into existing clinical workflows, so adoption would not require major infrastructure changes. This is applied engineering with a clear, near-term path to clinical impact.