South Island Researcher Innovates Cancer Diagnosis with Groundbreaking Tool

A childhood friend’s experience with cancer has inspired significant research efforts in South Island, New Zealand. Dr. Judy Ann Cocadiz, a post-doctoral researcher at the University of Otago, has received a three-year, $300,000 fellowship from the Cancer Society to develop innovative tools for early cancer diagnosis. Her project focuses on improving the accuracy of detecting early-stage cancers through the analysis of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), which are DNA fragments released by cancer cells into the bloodstream.

Dr. Cocadiz’s research aims to create a small device that can be inserted into a blood vessel. This device will function as a “sieve,” capturing ctDNA for a short duration, potentially enabling doctors to detect cancers at earlier stages. Currently, traditional methods involve drawing blood from patients, typically around 8-10 ml. This poses challenges, as the amount of ctDNA in early-stage cancer is often minimal, making detection akin to “looking for a needle in a haystack.”

Cocadiz explained that extracting more blood from patients, particularly vulnerable populations like children or elderly individuals, is not ethical or practical. By designing a device that can collect ctDNA without requiring large blood samples, she hopes to reduce discomfort for patients while facilitating earlier and more accurate diagnoses. The envisioned device would operate similarly to an intravenous (IV) line, inserted and removed in a manner that minimizes invasion.

While her research is still in its proof of concept phase, Dr. Cocadiz remains optimistic about its potential impact. “I am really grateful for this grant from the Cancer Society,” she stated. “They are not just funding this research but also supporting the early stages of my career.”

Her journey into cancer research was sparked during her childhood in the Philippines. At just five years old, Cocadiz noticed that her best friend often suffered from unexplained bruises. Concerned, she informed her parents, who subsequently took her friend to the doctor. He was diagnosed with early-stage leukaemia and received timely treatment. Reuniting with him earlier this year, Cocadiz expressed her joy at seeing him healthy and thriving.

Despite initially considering a career as a doctor, Cocadiz pivoted towards research, feeling a strong desire to contribute to the fight against cancer. “Everything just kind of fell into place, and I am really glad I ended up in cancer research,” she remarked.

As Dr. Cocadiz continues her innovative work, the potential for her research to transform cancer diagnostics remains promising. The advancement of this device could significantly improve patient outcomes, paving the way for a future where early detection of cancer becomes more accessible and effective.