New DNA sequencing tech could speed up brain tumour diagnosis

Researchers have developed a new method using nanopore DNA sequencing that could dramatically shorten the time needed to diagnose brain tumours—from weeks to just hours.

The approach, reported in Neuro-Oncology, allows tumour DNA to be sequenced quickly during surgery, helping guide immediate treatment decisions. Currently, patients often wait up to eight weeks for full genetic test results.

The new method, which costs around £400 per sample, uses nanopores to read DNA by detecting changes in electric currents. The system then compares results with known tumour profiles using custom-built software, offering faster and potentially more accurate diagnoses.