Researcher Develops Innovative Device for Early Cancer Detection

A childhood experience has driven Dr. Judy Ann Cocadiz to explore innovative methods for early cancer diagnosis. The researcher from the University of Otago has been awarded a three-year, $300,000 post-doctoral fellowship through the Cancer Society’s 2025 National Research Grant Round. Her project focuses on developing a device aimed at improving the accuracy of cancer diagnosis and monitoring.

Dr. Cocadiz’s research revolves around circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), which consists of DNA fragments released by cancer cells into the bloodstream. Higher levels of ctDNA are typically found in patients with more advanced cancer. The goal of her work is to create a small device that can be inserted into a blood vessel, acting as a “sieve” to capture ctDNA for a limited timeframe. This innovation could enable doctors to detect cancers at earlier stages and monitor for residual or recurrent cancer post-treatment.

Currently, the process for examining ctDNA requires drawing blood from patients, usually around 8-10 ml. Dr. Cocadiz noted, “In early-stage cancer, there is not a lot of ctDNA in 10 ml of blood. It is like looking for a needle in a haystack.” She explained that taking larger blood samples would not be ethical, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children or frail individuals. Her device aims to minimize discomfort by capturing ctDNA without the need for extensive blood collection.

Still in the proof-of-concept phase, the device is intended to function similarly to an intravenous (IV) line, inserted into a patient’s blood vessel like a standard needle. Although clinical application is still years away, Dr. Cocadiz expressed optimism regarding the direction of her research, stating, “I am really optimistic about where my research is heading.”

Dr. Cocadiz completed her PhD in biochemistry in 2022. Her passion for cancer research was ignited during her early childhood in the Philippines, when she observed her childhood friend suffering from unexplained bruises. At just five years old, she encouraged her friend’s parents to seek medical advice, leading to a diagnosis of early-stage leukaemia. Thanks to timely intervention, her friend received immediate treatment and is now healthy.

Reflecting on her journey, Dr. Cocadiz remarked, “Everything just kind of fell into place, and I am really glad I ended up in cancer research.” She emphasized the importance of the grant from the Cancer Society, acknowledging that it not only supports her research but also her early career development in the field.

Dr. Cocadiz’s work aims to contribute significantly to the future of cancer diagnosis, potentially transforming how early-stage cancers are monitored and detected. Her personal experiences have fueled her commitment to this vital research, with the hope of making a meaningful impact in the lives of cancer patients.