Bacteria as Biosensors

Russian scientists suggest using Helicobacter pylori as biological sensor for diagnostics of stomach malignant tumors.

These bacteria are known to be responsible for development of gastric ulcer and stomach cancer. In Russia about 40 people out of 100 thousand hear this diagnosis every year. Early detection of tumor formation is one of main aspects of successful therapy.

However, existing methods of stomach cancer diagnostics cannot provide exact detection of tumors. Russian researchers seem to have found the solution. Stomach cancer has one peculiar feature – tumor cells are unable to produce hydrochloric acid, thus tumor environment becomes alkalized. Therefore, gastric juice can signal about malignant growth.

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