Scientists in Great Britain have developed a method for detecting cancer metastases using a new diamond-based sensor. This was announced in the journal "Physical Review Applied".
It is reported that the new device by British physicists is compact, portable, and safe. It is based on the unique properties of diamond: NV centers (crystal lattice defects formed by nitrogen atoms and vacancies) can record even the smallest changes in a magnetic field. The sensor reacts to a magnetic fluid containing iron oxide nanoparticles. By injecting it into a tumor, it is possible to observe which lymph nodes the metastases have spread to and remove them more accurately during surgery.
The device operates using a 0.5 mm cubic micro-diamond and a small permanent magnet, so it does not require additional large electronics. Doctors have rated the innovation highly.
Experts believe that in the future, this sensor could also be used to detect types of tumors in the lungs, liver, intestines, and esophagus.
