RUPIKA reduces cancer worry when communicating CTC-based minimal residual disease results. Publications | 30 August 2026 Assessment of apprehension for Minimal Cellular Residual Disease Using Circulating Tumour Cells in Pre and Post Surgery Breast Cancer Patients A prospective study evaluates RUPIKA, a structured CTC-based MRD disclosure protocol, showing significantly reduced cancer worry among breast cancer patients after surgery compared with routine result communication. Introduction: Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are increasingly used to assess minimal cellular residual disease (MCRD) in solid tumors. However, no standardized guidance exists for communicating MCRD results to patients, potentially leading to psychological distress and increased apprehension regarding residual disease after treatment, including surgery. We developed RUPIKA—Rapport, Understanding and Education, Preparation for Sample Collection, Inform Results, Kind Closure, and Advise for Follow-up—a structured communication protocol for sharing post-surgery outcomes with patients. We report an apprehension protocol for communicating MCRD outcomes in pre- and post-surgery breast cancer patients. Method: In an ongoing prospective interventional study (CTRI/2025/09/094661 and IEC SJNAHS 113/2025; St. John’s Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru, India), six oncology experts standardized the study using the ABC Content Validity Index (CVI) framework. Pre- and post-surgery, 22 patients with early-stage or in-situ stage I–III breast cancer were enrolled and equally assigned to routine disclosure (control, n=11) or RUPIKA-guided disclosure (intervention, n=11). A 1.5 mL blood sample was analyzed for CTCs (CK⁺/DAPI⁺/CD45⁻) and PD-L1 expression using the CDSCO-India-approved OncoDiscover immunomagnetic CTC platform. The six-step RUPIKA protocol included rapport building, understanding and education, preparation for sample collection, structured communication of CTC results, supportive closure, and follow-up planning. Cancer worry and apprehension were assessed before and after disclosure. The mean patient age was 52±12 years. Twenty-seven percent had early-stage/in-situ disease, with Luminal B representing the predominant molecular subtype. Most participants were from rural backgrounds, and none had prior awareness of MRD. Results: The protocol demonstrated high validity (CVI=0.98). CTCs persisted in a substantial proportion of patients (66.7%) after completion of chemotherapy and surgical intervention, suggesting the presence of MCRD. Before surgery, CTCs were detected in 83.3% of patients. After surgery, CTCs remained detectable in 66.7% of patients, while four patients became CTC-negative. Following surgery, cancer worry increased significantly in the control group (54.73±8.89; P=0.003), whereas it decreased significantly in the RUPIKA group (24.73±6.59; P<0.001). Between-group comparison showed significantly lower post-disclosure cancer worry among patients receiving RUPIKA-guided counselling compared with routine disclosure (t=8.992; P<0.001). Conclusion: This ongoing observational study demonstrates that RUPIKA—the first dedicated CTC-based MRD disclosure protocol—effectively mitigates cancer worry in breast cancer patients. Larger studies across diverse cancer cohorts are warranted. Know more Stay One Step Ahead of Cancer. Get the latest news and innovations from Actorius delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe for regular updates Email* Yes, subscribe me for regular updates. * Subscribe

CTCs and PD-L1 after radiotherapy indicate MRD and possible tumor re-invasion. Publications | 25 November 2024 ISLB 2024: Transit of Circulating Tumor Cells (CTC) Post Radiotherapy at Irradiated Tumor Regions in Pan-cancer Patients Study links radiotherapy exposure with circulating tumor cells and PD-L1 expression, indicating possible minimal residual disease and metastatic risk. Introduction The presence of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) is a predictor of minimal residual disease (MRD) and treatment outcomes. Abscopal effects of targeted intraoperative radiotherapy have been observed clinically, and the tumor microenvironment may influence these outcomes. Recent reports have shown activation and transit of CTCs following simulated radiotherapy from irradiated regions in vitro. Thus, the cellular extravasation and invasion phenotype cascade of CTCs in irradiated tumor regions could be highly concerning and raises several clinical questions. For the first time, we retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent radiotherapy to observe a clinical correlation between the presence of CTCs and overexpression of the PD-L1 protein in blood circulation as an indicator of minimal residual disease and a potential radiotherapy-associated effect. Methods A cohort of 26 pan-cancer patients (female = 10, male = 16) was analyzed, including cases of colorectal cancer (n = 4), lung cancer (n = 4), endometrial cancer (n = 4), head and neck cancer (n = 4), pancreatic cancer (n = 1), ovarian cancer (n = 1), renal cell carcinoma (n = 4), breast cancer (n = 2), and bone cancer (n = 2). Blood samples were analyzed retrospectively based on clinical and treatment history. Enumeration of CTCs was performed using the immunomagnetic multi-component OncoDiscover platform approved by CDSCO India, mediated by anti-EpCAM antibodies. CTCs were identified based on the presence of CK18+, PD-L1+, DAPI+, and CD45− staining using an automated Zeiss microscope in 1.5 ml of blood samples. Results In the retrospective analysis, a total of 88% (23/26) of patients showed the presence of CTCs in 1.5 ml of blood. Among these patients, 46% (n = 12/26) had undergone radiotherapy at some point during their treatment history. Three patients had received focused radiotherapy for brain metastasis with primary cancers of head and neck (1 case) and endometrium (2 cases). Among patients who underwent radiotherapy, 88% (8/9) were observed to have at least one CTC along with PD-L1 overexpression in at least one CTC. In addition, one patient who underwent radiotherapy showed the presence of a CTC cluster. Conclusions For the first time, we demonstrate the association of CTCs following radiotherapy in irradiated tumor regions. The disseminated CTCs may enhance tumor cell reinvasion through active transit in circulation, supported by a favorable microenvironmental milieu. Further validation with larger clinical cohorts across multiple cancer types is required. Know more Stay One Step Ahead of Cancer. Get the latest news and innovations from Actorius delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe for regular updates Email* Yes, subscribe me for regular updates. * Subscribe

Marketing Manager Publication Date: 26 Aug 2026 | Last Application Date: 6 Oct 2026 Apply Now Department Product & Marketing Location Mumbai, India Experience 3–5 years Role Overview The Marketing Manager will be responsible for developing and executing integrated marketing strategies for Actorius and its oncology-focused products. The role will connect scientific innovation with market needs and build strong brand awareness among healthcare professionals, institutions and relevant audiences. Key Responsibilities Develop and execute annual and quarterly marketing strategies. Build positioning and messaging for Actorius' products and technologies. Develop marketing plans for OncoDiscover® and other Actorius platforms. Create healthcare professional-focused campaigns and communication strategies. Work closely with the Sales team to generate qualified leads and support business growth. Develop product presentations, brochures, sales collateral, campaigns and other marketing assets. Coordinate with creative agencies, designers, content teams and external partners. Support conferences, exhibitions, CME activities and medical events. Conduct market research and competitor analysis. Translate scientific and clinical information into clear, accurate and compelling communication. Develop customer segmentation and audience-specific messaging. Monitor campaign performance and prepare marketing reports. Maintain brand consistency across all communication channels. Qualifications & Skills MBA in Marketing or equivalent qualification preferred. Bachelor's/Master's degree in Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Pharmacy, Healthcare or a related field is an advantage. 3–5 years of marketing experience , preferably in healthcare, diagnostics, pharma, medical devices or biotechnology. Strong understanding of B2B healthcare marketing. Excellent communication, project management and stakeholder-management skills. Ability to understand and communicate scientific and technical concepts. What We Look For At Actorius, we value people who combine ownership, curiosity, scientific thinking and execution . We look for professionals who are: Passionate about healthcare and meaningful innovation. Comfortable working in a fast-growing, innovation-driven environment. Curious and willing to learn. Strong in communication and collaboration. Focused on outcomes and accountability. Comfortable working across functions. Ethical and professional in their approach. Motivated by the opportunity to contribute to technologies that can impact cancer care. About Actorius Actorius Innovations & Research Pvt. Ltd. is an innovation-driven biotechnology and medical diagnostics company focused on developing technologies that address critical challenges in cancer care. From breakthrough research to clinically meaningful diagnostics, Actorius works at the intersection of biotechnology, biomaterials, circulating tumor cells (CTCs), liquid biopsy and oncology diagnostics . Our goal is to translate deep scientific understanding into practical technologies that can help clinicians make more informed decisions and improve patient outcomes. Our flagship OncoDiscover® CTC Test is India's first DCGI/CDSCO-approved blood test for detecting circulating tumor cells and supporting cancer monitoring. Actorius also continues to develop advanced technologies such as OncoMetastat® , alongside its broader research and diagnostic platforms. We are looking for dynamic thinkers, problem-solvers and doers who want to work on meaningful challenges in healthcare and contribute to technologies that can make a difference in cancer care. Why Join Actorius? Work on Meaningful Healthcare Challenges Contribute to technologies focused on cancer diagnostics, CTCs, liquid biopsy and oncology. Be Part of an Innovation-Driven Organisation Work alongside scientists, clinicians, business leaders and healthcare professionals. Learn Across Disciplines Actorius encourages interdisciplinary thinking across science, technology, diagnostics, marketing, sales and operations. Build With Purpose Our work is driven by the belief that better biological insights can contribute to better healthcare decisions. Grow With the Organisation Join a growing team where ownership, initiative and individual contribution matter. How to Apply Click the below link to apply. Candidates are encouraged to clearly mention the position and preferred location in their application. Apply Now

3D-printed G-EpCAM device effectively captures CTCs to stem metastatic progression. Publications | 7 June 2022 ASCO 2022: Extracorporeal microchannel device to capture and eliminate circulating tumor cells from cancer patient’s blood. A 3D-printed G-EpCAM device successfully captured over 85% of CTCs with minimal hemolysis, offering a new way to stem metastatic progression. Background Metastatic progression accounts for nearly 90% of cancer-related deaths and has been directly correlated with the presence of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in numerous carcinomas, including breast, lung, ovarian, colorectal, and head and neck cancers. The removal of CTCs from cancer patients' blood is directly implicated in the reduction of extravasation and disease invasiveness to secondary organs. Methods We designed and printed 3-dimensional (3D) microchannel devices using a biocompatible polymer and packed them with anti-EpCAM (EpCAM) mediated glass-based (G) compositions (G-EpCAM). Computational fluid dynamic (CFD) analysis simulation was explored to optimize the hemodynamic effect of the G-EpCAM device for measuring the pressure and velocity difference for blood along the spiral flow microchannels. Red blood cell (RBC) hemolysis was estimated using G-EpCAM compositions packed in a device to determine optimal biocompatibility. We assessed cancer cell lines' (breast cancer MCF7, lung cancer A549) interactions and capture with varying incubation time points, the effect of anti-EpCAM concentrations, the number of G-EpCAMs, and series of devices. We evaluated the G-EpCAM-on-device's CTC capture capability and biocompatibility using head and neck, colorectal, lung, and ductal breast cancer patients' blood samples. All G-EpCAM captured CTCs were immunostained for cytokeratin 18 (CK18) expression, and the optimal fluorescence acquisition intensity was quantified. Results The extracorporeal G-EpCAM microchannel device was 3D printed and consisted of an interlocking top lid and bottom base with inlet and outlet channels. The path length of the spiral device consisted of 20 microchannels with a 6.0-foot length. The device accommodated 28 gm of non-hemolytic G-EpCAM compositions. CFD analysis showed 3.8 mm as the ideal channel diameter and 2 mm as the superlative G-EpCAM diameter for maximal cell and CTC capture with minimal blood hemolysis (less than 1%) as compared to the control. Series 1 and 2 devices indicated 90% and 85% cell capture efficiency, respectively, using G-EpCAM devices, indicating the highest interactions and efficiency with cells. Conversely, the first device in the series captured the highest number of cells. In addition, the efficiency improved as the number of G-EpCAM compositions was increased. We accounted for the device to capture CTCs with specificity using the G-EpCAM composition and observed no hemolysis or non-specific interactions with other blood cells like RBCs or leukocytes. Conclusions Continuous CTC removal from cancer patients' blood circulation using such a device offers promising therapeutic utility in stemming aggressive metastatic invasion and progression for improving the overall survival of epithelial origin cancer patients. Clinical Trial Information CTRI U1111/1192-3951. Know more Stay One Step Ahead of Cancer. Get the latest news and innovations from Actorius delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe for regular updates Email* Yes, subscribe me for regular updates. * Subscribe

Making cancer detection more accessible and affordable to people Press Release | 24 August 2019 Startup Mantra: Making cancer detection more accessible and affordable to people Launching ‘OncoDiscover Liquid Biopsy Test’, a minimally invasive test which can be performed multiple times requiring 1.5ml blood volume... Actorius Innovations and Research Pvt. Ltd. Read full release Stay One Step Ahead of Cancer. Get the latest news and innovations from Actorius delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe for regular updates Email* Yes, subscribe me for regular updates. * Subscribe

Explore our Privacy Policy. Learn how your data is protected and securely managed with our Privacy Policy. Privacy Policy Date Updated: 03 March 2026 Actorius Innovations and Research Pvt. Ltd. (“we,” “us,” or “our”) is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your personal information when you access or use our website at [https://www.actorius.in ] (“Site”), in accordance with applicable Indian data protection laws, including the Information Technology Act, 2000 and the rules made thereunder. 1. Information We Collect We collect the following categories of information through our Site: a. Personal Information Information that may identify you and is voluntarily provided by you, including but not limited to: Full Name Email Address Phone Number (optional) Organization or Company Name (optional) Professional details you choose to share Any other information you voluntarily submit via contact forms or inquiries b. Usage Data Information automatically collected when you interact with our Site, such as: IP address Browser type and version Operating system Pages visited and time spent on the Site Referring and exit URLs Device identifiers Approximate location data (where permitted and with consent) 2. How We Use Your Information We use the information we collect to: Operate, maintain, and improve our Site Personalize and enhance your browsing experience Understand user behavior and site performance Respond to inquiries and provide requested information Communicate updates, insights, or promotional material (only with your consent) Ensure site security and prevent misuse or fraudulent activity Comply with applicable legal and regulatory obligations Your personal information will only be used for purposes consistent with this Privacy Policy. 3. Sharing of Information We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information. We may share information only in the following situations: With trusted service providers who assist us in operating our Site (e.g., hosting, analytics), subject to confidentiality obligations When required by law, regulation, court order, or governmental authority To protect the rights, safety, or property of Actorius Innovations & Research Pvt. Ltd., our users, or others In connection with investigations of potential violations of our terms or applicable laws 4. Cookies and Tracking Technologies We use cookies and similar technologies to: Remember user preferences Analyze traffic and site usage Improve performance and functionality Deliver relevant content (where consent is provided) You may manage or disable cookies through your browser settings. Please note that disabling cookies may affect certain features of the Site. 5. Data Security We implement reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, disclosure, or misuse. While we strive to protect your data, no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is completely secure, and absolute security cannot be guaranteed. 6. Your Rights Subject to applicable Indian laws, you may have the right to: Access the personal data we hold about you Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete data Request deletion of your personal data, subject to legal requirements Restrict or object to certain processing activities Withdraw consent where processing is based on consent To exercise these rights, please contact us using the details provided in Section 9. 7. Children’s Privacy The Site is not intended for use by individuals under the age of 18. We do not knowingly collect personal data from minors. If we become aware that a minor has provided personal information, we will take steps to delete such data promptly. 8. Changes to This Privacy Policy We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in legal, regulatory, or operational requirements. Any updates will be posted on this page with a revised “Last Updated” date. We encourage you to review this policy periodically. 9. Contact Us If you have any questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy, please contact us at: Website: [https://www.actorius.in/contact] Email: [info@actorius.com ]

Actorius featured on BBC News Click Kannada with expert and patient insights. Press Release | 22 March 2019 Actorius Innovations Featured on BBC News Click Kannada Actorius Innovations and Research was showcased on BBC News Click (Kannada edition), featuring an interview with Dr. Jayant Khandare and testimonials from leading oncologists including Dr. Kumar Prabhash and Dr. Pankaj Chaturvedi, along with patient experiences. In this special feature on BBC News Click Kannada, Actorius Innovations and Research highlights its advancements in cancer diagnostics and liquid biopsy technology. Dr. Jayant Khandare shares insights into the science and vision behind the innovation, while renowned experts Dr. Kumar Prabhash and Dr. Pankaj Chaturvedi provide clinical perspectives on its impact. The segment also includes powerful patient testimonials, underscoring the real-world significance of early and minimally invasive cancer detection. Watch the video Stay One Step Ahead of Cancer. Get the latest news and innovations from Actorius delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe for regular updates Email* Yes, subscribe me for regular updates. * Subscribe

Actorius reflects on FHNO 2026 in Kashmir, where Dr. Jayant Khandare connected with leading oncologists to discuss cancer research, innovation, and better patient care. Events | 13 September 2026 Reflections from FHNO 2026 | Kashmir Reflections from FHNO 2026 in Kashmir, where Dr. Jayant Khandare engaged with leading Indian oncologists to exchange perspectives on cancer research, innovation, and the future of oncology. Amid the scenic valleys of Kashmir and the soothing waves of Dal Lake , FHNO 2026 created a meaningful space for conversations, collaboration, and shared perspectives on the future of oncology. Our Co-founder, MD & CSO, Dr. Jayant Khandare , had the opportunity to engage with leading Indian oncologists, sharing perspectives on cancer research, innovation, and evolving approaches to cancer diagnostics . Dr. Khandare also spoke about OncoDiscover® EMT CTC , an approach that extends CTC characterization beyond epithelial markers to identify mesenchymal and hybrid phenotypes associated with epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). By detecting EMT-associated CTCs expressing mesenchymal markers, OncoDiscover EMT CTC brings an additional dimension to CTC characterization , supporting the study of tumour heterogeneity, invasion, and dissemination. From scientific exchange to new perspectives, conversations like these strengthen our shared commitment to advancing Indian oncology through science and innovation—and ultimately contributing to better patient care across India. A memorable few days of science, collaboration, and inspiring conversations in the beautiful setting of Kashmir. Together, advancing oncology. Together, moving closer to better patient care. #FHNO2026 #HeadAndNeckCancer #Oncology #CancerResearch #CancerDiagnostics #PrecisionOncology #LiquidBiopsy #CTC #OncologyInnovation #Actorius Know more Stay One Step Ahead of Cancer. Get the latest news and innovations from Actorius delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe for regular updates Email* Yes, subscribe me for regular updates. * Subscribe

CTC and PD-L1 profiling supports therapy stratification and monitoring in cancers. Publications | 16 September 2025 PD-L1 overexpression on circulating tumor cells and CTC clusters: A potential biomarker across solid carcinomas Correlation of CTC detection, PD-L1 expression, and CTC clusters highlights biomarkers for minimal residual disease and cancer progression monitoring. Abstract Background Overexpression of the dynamic protein PD-L1 on circulating tumor cells (CTCs) is a highly implicative biomarker that represents post–curative intent status, minimal residual disease (MRD), disease aggressiveness, therapeutic response, and metastatic progression. We evaluated the correlation among CTC detection, PD-L1 expression, and CTC clusters present in solid tumors, namely lung, breast, colorectal, ovarian, and prostate carcinomas. Longitudinal monitoring of CTCs remains a major focus after treatments, including surgical intervention with curative intent. Methods Retrospectively, we analyzed 328 cancer patients (male 163, female 165) across stages, consisting of a total of 383 samples with baseline and follow-ups (n = 55). Cancer types included lung (27.13%), colorectal cancer (21.95%), breast (9.75%), ovary (4.2%), prostate (3.9%), and others. CTCs and clusters were detected from 1.5 ml peripheral blood using the OncoDiscover platform approved by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization of India. The platform contains a multifunctional magneto-nanosystem mediated by anti-epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) antibody. CTCs were confirmed as EpCAM+ve, CK18+ve, DAPI+ve, and CD45–ve. PD-L1 expression on CTCs was detected based on the linear intensity gradients of fluorescence signals using image acquisition on an automated fluorescence microscope. Results Among the 383 samples with baseline and follow-ups, 69.45% of patients had CTCs ranging from 1–11. Approximately 77% of patients were above the age of 50. The total number of CTCs observed was ~649 with a mean distribution of ~1.69. CTCs with PD-L1 overexpression were observed in 55.35% of patients (n = 266). Higher CTC prevalence was observed in lung cancer (24.75%), followed by colorectal cancer (21.57%) and breast cancer (5.89%). CTC clusters were observed in 10.18% of patient samples. Notably, concurrent positivity for both CTCs and PD-L1 expression was most prevalent in lung cancer patients, suggesting a potential aggressive disease phenotype and therapeutic vulnerability. Conclusions The findings support the integrated use of CTCs and their PD-L1 expression as a composite biomarker strategy to stratify patients for targeted therapies, immunotherapeutic interventions, and longitudinal monitoring. View Publication Stay One Step Ahead of Cancer. Get the latest news and innovations from Actorius delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe for regular updates Email* Yes, subscribe me for regular updates. * Subscribe

Actorius Innovations at ASCO Annual Meeting 2026 Publications | 17 March 2026 ASCO 2026: Continual depletion of circulating tumor cells using an automated device enriched with affinity glass bead substrates in breast and CRC patient's whole blood. Automated OncoMetastat device captures and depletes CTCs in colorectal and breast cancer, aiding detection of minimal residual disease and metastasis risk. Abstract Background Despite no radiological or pathological evidence of disease, about 25–50% of stage II–III colorectal cancer (CRC) and early-stage breast cancer (BC) patients are known to experience recurrence. The presence of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) with epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) traits represents aggressive systemic disease. Through autonomous oncogenic activation, epithelial cells acquire invasive properties that enable metastasis. A high EMT score combined with immune checkpoint expression, such as PD-L1, may allow tumor cells to evade immune surveillance. Following curative-intent surgery and therapy, CTCs represent minimal cellular residual disease (MCRD) and serve as strong predictors of recurrence. In this study, we present an automated extracorporeal device designed to capture, analyze, and deplete CTCs for further clinical evaluation. Methods We retrospectively analyzed 66 patients, including stage II–III CRC patients (n = 41) and breast cancer patients (n = 25). Whole blood samples were processed to deplete CTCs using the OncoMetastat device. Among the CRC patients, 12 were female and 29 were male. The average age of BC and CRC patients was 53.6 and 58 years, respectively. The device consists of a spiral channel (127 × 85 × 5 mm; spiral span: 66 mm; width: 4 mm) 3D-printed using biocompatible resin and filled with anti-EpCAM antibody–conjugated glass beads (GB). The system includes a controller and a peristaltic pump that circulates blood in and out of the spiral channels. Vibrational energy induces motion in the glass beads to enhance cell capture. Hemolysis, protein binding, leukocyte adsorption, and CTC capture efficiency were evaluated. CTC capture efficiency was compared with the CDSCO-approved OncoDiscover CTC technology in India. Blood samples were pumped into the device and incubated with affinity-enriched glass beads for 30 minutes under constant vibration (200 Hz) to enhance CTC capture and prevent blood stagnation. CTCs were confirmed using CK18⁺, DAPI⁺, and CD45⁻ markers and analyzed using an automated fluorescence microscope. Results A total of 48 CTCs were detected in 58% (38/66) of patients. CTC positivity was slightly higher in breast cancer patients (60.0%) compared with CRC patients (56.1%). The mean CTC distribution was 0.73 overall, with CRC and BC both showing mean values of 0.73 and 0.72, respectively. The negative predictive value (NPV) was determined to be 0.86 (86%). Automated scanning demonstrated 100% efficiency in detecting CTCs. Low leukocyte adhesion was observed with anti-EpCAM–coated glass beads. White blood cell (WBC) counts varied by cancer type, with mean counts of 4.9 × 10⁶/mL for breast cancer and 3.9 × 10⁶/mL for colorectal cancer, both lower than healthy controls (6.9 × 10⁶/mL). Clinically insignificant hemolysis (<1%) and minimal protein binding (~1.5%) were observed in the spiral channel. Glass beads subjected to vibrational energy demonstrated enhanced CTC sequestration, achieving over 90% cell capture efficiency compared with vibration-free conditions. Conclusions This study demonstrates efficient CTC depletion in 66 CRC and breast cancer patients using an automated extracorporeal device. Early-stage CRC and BC patients with detectable CTCs may have a higher risk of developing distant metastasis. Therefore, following complete remission, the use of an extracorporeal device to deplete CTCs could potentially reduce the risk of metastatic progression. View Publication Stay One Step Ahead of Cancer. Get the latest news and innovations from Actorius delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe for regular updates Email* Yes, subscribe me for regular updates. * Subscribe

PD-L1 expressing CTCs help monitor pancreatic cancer progression and MRD. Publications | 25 November 2024 ISLB 2024: Expression of Programmed Death - Ligand 1 as a dynamic biomarker on circulating tumor cells in pancreatic cancer patients CTC detection with PD-L1 overexpression reveals aggressive pancreatic cancer and potential biomarker value for monitoring metastasis and disease progression. Introduction Pancreatic cancer shows a high mortality rate due to difficulties in early diagnosis and the absence of standardized guidelines for assessing suspicious pancreatic masses. Biomarkers such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and CA19-9 lack sufficient sensitivity and specificity for pancreatic cancer detection. While tissue biopsy provides a static signature of target protein expressions, including PD-L1, the enumeration and profiling of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) with cell surface markers can offer actionable targets for treatment. We present findings in pancreatic cancer where CTCs are associated with overexpression of PD-L1 as a dynamic marker for monitoring minimal residual disease (MRD) and disease progression, highlighting its role in the metastatic cascade. Methods Retrospectively, 50 pancreatic cancer patients were investigated for the presence of CTCs. Among them, 12 patients (24%) were in the early stage of disease, with ages ranging from 35 to 75 years. Sixty percent of patients were male (n = 30) and 40% were female (n = 20), while 76% (n = 38) were classified as late-stage cases. PD-L1 expression was evaluated using the approved OncoDiscover platform, which utilizes multi-component systems conjugated with anti-EpCAM antibodies on magnetic nanoparticles. CTC enumeration was performed using CD45–, EpCAM+, DAPI+, and CK18+ markers in 1.5 ml of peripheral blood. Functional assays assessed PD-L1 overexpression on CTCs using automated motorized Zeiss fluorescence microscopy. The sensitivity of the CTC and PD-L1 assay had been previously evaluated in other solid cancers. Results Out of 50 pancreatic cancer patients, 74% (n = 37) had at least one detectable CTC. Among these patients, 51% (n = 19) had one CTC, 30% (n = 11) had two CTCs, 14% (n = 5) had three CTCs, and 5% (n = 2) had four CTCs. The mean number of CTCs and clusters was 1.28 and 0.16, respectively. Additionally, 92% (n = 34) of patients demonstrated PD-L1 expression on CTCs. CTC clusters were observed in 19% of patients (n = 7). The mean PD-L1 expression on CTCs was 1.14. Conclusions CTCs with PD-L1 overexpression strongly suggest poor prognosis, potentially linked to activation of the metastatic cascade through immune system evasion. Larger studies are required to validate whether PD-L1-positive CTCs can serve as a reliable biomarker for the diagnosis and management of pancreatic cancer. View Publication Stay One Step Ahead of Cancer. Get the latest news and innovations from Actorius delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe for regular updates Email* Yes, subscribe me for regular updates. * Subscribe

CTC counts correlate with OSCC stage and aggressive pathological features in India. Publications | 15 March 2020 ASCO 2020: Correlation of CTCs with disease progression in Indian oral cancer patients. In 230 OSCC patients, CTC counts correlated with cancer stage and aggressive features, proving CTCs are a reliable marker for disease stratification. Background Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is the leading cancer in India, with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) as the most frequent subtype. OSCC is classified as a locoregional disease, and its increased frequency is attributed to a lack of effective biomarkers compared to other epithelial cancers. At the time of diagnosis, above 50% of cases present with advanced-stage disease and are predisposed to treatment failure despite appropriate intervention. Thus, early diagnosis of OSCC can significantly reduce the disease burden. Here, we describe a regulatory-approved method to establish the presence of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in Indian OSCC patients and its positive correlation with various clinicopathological parameters, suggesting the potential use of CTCs as a significant parameter to stratify oral cancer with respect to disease advancement. Methods In a cross-sectional observational study, 230 OSCC patients at different pathological stages of the disease and treatment modes were enrolled. CTCs were isolated using the approved OncoDiscover liquid biopsy technology (approved by the Drug Controller General of India), a platform based on immunomagnetic CTC enumeration. CTCs were detected for CK18 presence and well-defined, DAPI-stained nuclei. Enumerated CTCs were subsequently analyzed for various clinicopathological parameters such as pathological stage (pStage), extra-capsular spread (ECS), lymphovascular emboli (LVE), perineural invasion (PNI), and depth of invasion (DOI). CTC cut-off values were obtained to differentiate early vs. advanced stages with respect to different clinical stages and parameters. Results CTCs of OSCC patients correlated positively with cancer stages (clinical as well as pathological) as well as aggressive pathological features. In the presence of aggressive pathological features that often suggest a poor disease outcome, we observed a 25–50% increase in CTC numbers. Early-stage, treatment-naive patients had a lower number of CTCs. The mean CTC number in advanced-stage patients was 50% higher than in early-stage OSCC patients. Conclusions Considering the positive correlation of CTC numbers with various pathophysiological features, CTCs can be contemplated as a reliable parameter to predict disease outcome in oral cancer. The consistent presence of CTCs across all disease stages also suggests the probable nature of OSCC as a biological systemic disease. Clinical Trial Information CTRI/2018/03/012905. Know more Stay One Step Ahead of Cancer. Get the latest news and innovations from Actorius delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe for regular updates Email* Yes, subscribe me for regular updates. * Subscribe