PI: Xuanhong Cheng
Co-PI: Yevgeny Berdichevsky
University: Lehigh University
Industry partner: Frontage Laboratories, Inc.
A 2024 study analyzed data from over one million metastatic cancer patients (1992–2019) across 13 cancer types and 25 non-cancer causes of death. It found that 82.6% died from cancer and 17.4% from other causes, with an average survival of just 10 months after metastasis [1]. For many solid tumors, the five-year survival rate declines drastically once metastasis occurs. Early detection at a more treatable stage can therefore improve patient outcomes and reduce long-term healthcare costs [2]. Despite advances in cancer diagnostics, only a few cancer types (breast, cervical, colorectal, and lung) currently benefit from established early detection tools suitable for population-wide screening [3]. Many other high-burden cancers, including pancreatic, ovarian, testicular, and thyroid that often go undetected until late stages due to the absence of sensitive, specific and minimally invasive tests. This proposal will leverage the research and development strengths of Lehigh University and Frontage Laboratories Inc. to develop a multiplex biomarker panel for minimally invasive, early cancer detection, disease monitoring, and differential diagnosis across multiple tumor types in a single plasma or serum sample. The project represents a collaborative effort among academia, industry, and technology partners. Key contributors include Drs. Cheng and Berdichevsky (Bioengineering at Lehigh University) for academic guidance, Dr. Lin (Frontage Laboratories, Inc) for expertise in bioanalysis, regulatory support and clinical sample access, and Dr. Ma (Alamar Bioscience, Inc) as a platform vendor providing technical support for advanced multiplex assay development. Our approach integrates an advanced high-sensitivity immunoassay platform, rigorous biomarker selection, and methodical clinical validation. This project aims to deliver a clinically meaningful solution with significant potential to improve patient care and achieve commercial scalability. A Bioengineering PhD student jointly supervised by academic and industrial advisors will be trained to become a future R&D leader in the biotechnology industry.