Researcher Develops Device for Early Cancer Detection with Grant

A significant personal experience has driven Dr. Judy Ann Cocadiz, a researcher at the University of Otago, to investigate innovative methods for early cancer detection. Her childhood friend’s battle with cancer has motivated her to develop a device aimed at improving cancer diagnosis and monitoring, potentially transforming patient care.

Dr. Cocadiz recently secured a three-year, $300,000 post-doctoral fellowship from the Cancer Society as part of their 2025 National Research Grant Round. This funding will support her work on a novel tool that focuses on circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), which are DNA fragments released into the bloodstream by cancer cells. The concentration of ctDNA typically increases as cancer progresses.

The researcher is designing a small device intended to be inserted into a blood vessel, functioning as a “sieve” to capture ctDNA over a brief period. This approach could enable medical professionals to detect cancers at earlier stages and monitor for any residual or recurring disease after treatment. Currently, doctors analyze ctDNA by drawing a small blood sample, usually between 8-10 ml. Dr. Cocadiz noted the challenge: “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.”

To address this issue, she proposes a device that collects ctDNA without requiring excessive blood draws. “Taking a lot of blood from patients would not be ethical or physically good for them, especially for children or frail individuals,” she explained. “We wanted to create a device that could be inserted and allowed to gather ctDNA for a few minutes before being removed again.” This method promises to reduce patient discomfort while facilitating earlier and more accurate diagnoses.

While her research is currently in the proof-of-concept phase, Dr. Cocadiz envisions the device operating similarly to an intravenous line, inserted into a patient’s vein like a standard needle. The timeline for clinical application remains uncertain, but she expressed optimism about the progress of her work. “I am really grateful for this grant from the Cancer Society, because they are not just helping fund this research, but essentially the early stages of my career as well,” she stated.

Dr. Cocadiz, who completed her PhD in biochemistry in 2022, has been deeply influenced by her childhood experiences in the Philippines. At just five years old, she observed her best friend displaying unusual bruising from minor injuries. Concerned, she informed her parents, who then consulted with the friend’s family. This led to a diagnosis of early-stage leukaemia, allowing for prompt treatment.

Reuniting with her childhood friend earlier this year, Dr. Cocadiz was relieved to find him in good health. Reflecting on her career path, she realized that while she did not wish to become a doctor, her passion for supporting cancer patients remained strong. “Everything just kind of fell into place, and I am really glad I ended up in cancer research,” she remarked.

Through her innovative research and personal dedication, Dr. Cocadiz aims to contribute significantly to the fight against cancer, offering hope for more effective early-stage detection and improved outcomes for patients.