Research into a new blood screening test designed to earlier detect colorectal cancer has been published in an internationally renowned journal.
Having this research accepted into this journal means it’s peer reviewed. It validates what we’re doing, so I’m extremely happy.
Dr. Anuraag Shrivastav
Annals of Surgery is one of the world’s most highly referenced surgery journal and provides the international community with information on significant contributions to the advancement of surgical science and practice.
Led by Dr. Anuraag Shrivastav, Professor in the Department of Biology at The University of Winnipeg, this new, effective, and patient-friendly test detects precancerous lesions and colorectal cancer.
“Having this research accepted into this journal means it’s peer reviewed,” he explained. “It validates what we’re doing, so I’m extremely happy.”
The published research is from a small proof-of-concept study that included 74 patients. During the study, the test was found to be outperforming other non-invasive colorectal cancer screening tests currently in the market.
“Dr. Shrivastav’s research continues to make significant contributions to the understanding of colorectal cancer, with the potential for a breakthrough screening tool,” said Dr. Jino Distasio, Vice-President of Research and Innovation. “This peer reviewed work is poised to have a profound impact on the industry and patient care. His novel research is further evidence of his ongoing contributions to medical research.”
The results from the proof-of-concept study is very timely. Shrivastav’s research team has begun a larger confirmatory trial, thanks to a $261,000 Research Manitoba Innovation Proof-of Concept Grant.
“A confirmatory trial can take us to the next level by essentially showing the validity of the test,” he explained. “The next step would be bringing the test to the market after a pivotal trial.”
Shrivastav says they have aggressively recruited patients for this trial and, by the end of 2022, it will be halfway complete with an end target of late 2023, early 2024.
If results from their current trial do show further validity in the test, Shrivastav says it’s possible to bring it to market three or four years after the study concludes.
