Danniell Domingo

Scientists from the University of the Philippines (UP) and the Lung Center of the Philippines (LCP) have identified 33 proteins that could help detect lung cancer at earlier stages, offering hope for improved diagnosis and treatment outcomes.

Photo Courtesy of UP Diliman College of Science/The Medical City.

These proteins, found in tumor and normal tissue samples from early-stage lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients, show abnormal activity and are linked to poor five-year survival rates. 

The discovery is seen as a major step in addressing late diagnoses of non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC), the most common type of lung cancer in the Philippines.

“These proteins have aberrant expression in both gene and protein levels,” said Dr. Baby Rorielyn Dimayacyac-Esleta from UP Diliman’s Institute of Chemistry. 

“Their gene levels are correlated with poor survival outcomes.”

Currently, lung cancer is the second most common cancer in the Philippines and has caused 20,953 deaths. Diagnosis typically relies on imaging techniques such as chest X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs.

Using quantitative proteomics analysis, the researchers found that the identified proteins could act as biomarkers—biological clues that help detect diseases. 

Incorporating them into current diagnostic methods may improve the accuracy and sensitivity of early lung cancer detection.

“These proteins can complement existing tools like chest radiography, low-dose CT scans, and bronchoscopic exams,” Dr. Esleta added.

The study was conducted by a multidisciplinary team from the UP Diliman College of Science and the LCP. Their findings are published in the international Journal of Proteome Research.