South Island Researcher Advances Cancer Diagnosis with Innovative Tool

A childhood friend’s battle with cancer has inspired groundbreaking research by Dr. Judy Ann Cocadiz from the University of Otago. Her work focuses on developing a new tool aimed at improving the accuracy of early-stage cancer diagnoses. This initiative is supported by a three-year, $300,000 post-doctoral fellowship awarded during the Cancer Society’s 2025 National Research Grant Round.

Dr. Cocadiz’s research centers on circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), which consists of DNA fragments released into the bloodstream by cancer cells. The concentration of ctDNA typically increases with cancer progression, making it a vital element for early detection. She is designing a small device that can be inserted into a blood vessel, acting as a “sieve” to capture ctDNA for a brief period. This method could allow healthcare professionals to identify cancers earlier and monitor for residual or recurring malignancies after treatment.

Currently, detecting ctDNA involves drawing a patient’s blood and analyzing a sample, which typically consists of only 8-10 milliliters. Dr. Cocadiz explained, “In early-stage cancer, there is not a lot of ctDNA in 10ml of blood. It is like looking for a needle in a haystack.” Extracting more blood from patients, particularly children or those who are frail, poses ethical and physical challenges. Therefore, she is developing a device that minimizes discomfort by collecting ctDNA within a few minutes before being removed.

While the research is still in the proof-of-concept phase, Dr. Cocadiz envisions that the device will function similarly to an intravenous (IV) line, easily inserted into a patient’s bloodstream. Although clinical implementation may still be years away, she expressed optimism about the direction of her research, stating, “I am really optimistic about where my research is heading.”

She emphasized her gratitude for the Cancer Society grant, which she believes is pivotal not only for her research but also for the early stages of her career. Dr. Cocadiz completed her PhD in biochemistry last year, and her desire to contribute to cancer treatment was sparked during her childhood in the Philippines.

At just five years old, she noticed her preschool friend frequently had large bruises from minor injuries. Concerned, she informed her parents, who then consulted the friend’s family. This led to a diagnosis of early-stage leukemia, allowing for prompt treatment. Meeting her friend again earlier this year, Dr. Cocadiz was delighted to find him healthy and thriving.

Although she initially considered becoming a doctor, Dr. Cocadiz ultimately chose to pursue a career in cancer research. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “Everything just kind of fell into place, and I am really glad I ended up in cancer research.” Her work has the potential to transform cancer diagnostics, offering hope for earlier and more effective interventions for patients.