According to a recent study, analyzing RNA, a form of genetic material, along with other components in urine can indicate changes in different cell types, potentially signaling the early onset of cancer and various other diseases. This innovative approach could enable healthcare professionals to identify health issues sooner, which increases the chances of effective treatment without the need for invasive methods.
Detecting diseases like cancer at an early stage is vital for successful treatment, yet not everyone has straightforward access to screening methods. For conditions affecting the genitourinary (GU) system—including the kidneys, prostate, and bladder—healthcare providers typically rely on a mix of screening approaches such as blood tests, imaging technology, and physical assessments. Researchers are now developing a simpler screening method through urine analysis.
In a study carried out by scientists from The University of Texas at Arlington, Chan-Zuckerberg Biohub, and Stanford University, it was discovered that examining the RNA in urine and its other components can highlight variations in cell types, which may indicate early signs of cancer and other health issues. This could assist medical professionals in detecting problems earlier, allowing for treatment before they become more serious and less invasive interventions.
“Currently, the most trusted method for diagnosing many GU conditions is a biopsy where a small tissue sample is taken during a rectal exam and analyzed in a laboratory. The invasive nature of this procedure can deter some individuals from seeking necessary care,” explained Joseph Buonomo, an assistant professor of chemistry at UTA and a co-author of the research. “Our early findings suggest that examining the RNA found in urine could identify certain conditions at their onset, where they can be managed more easily and affordably.”
In this study, researchers collected urine samples from two distinct groups: healthy participants and those with kidney stones. They extracted two kinds of RNA from the urine—cell-free RNA, which is found floating freely in the urine, and sediment RNA, which is derived from solid substances. These RNA types were sequenced and analyzed, comparing samples from healthy individuals with those from kidney stone patients. The advanced urine analysis revealed distinct cell patterns that can indicate the presence of disease.
“We are thrilled about this pioneering research as it could lead to more accessible screening methods that assist in detecting diseases affecting the bladder, kidneys, and prostate,” said Buonomo. “While our patient sample size was limited, this initial work sets the stage for creating a form of ‘non-invasive liquid biopsy’ that could monitor the development of conditions like kidney stones, diabetes, and cancer through urine analysis instead of surgical tissue samples.”
Looking ahead, Buonomo mentioned that the next step in the research is to incorporate advanced machine learning techniques aimed at honing in on the specific differences observed by comparing the RNA and protein profiles of healthy individuals with those of diagnosed patients. They are optimistic that pinpointing additional biomarkers will lead to the creation of simpler and less invasive diagnostic techniques in the future.
