Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, and early detection is crucial for improving patient outcomes. However, current diagnostic approaches often rely on invasive procedures or lack sufficient sensitivity at early stages. The SIREN project aimed to address this challenge by developing advanced, label-free sensing technologies capable of detecting cancer-related molecular signatures in a minimally invasive way.
The project focused on surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), an optical technique that enables highly sensitive molecular fingerprinting. SIREN developed and optimised nanostructured plasmonic substrates designed to improve the robustness and reproducibility of SERS measurements in biologically relevant environments. These platforms were evaluated using purified biomolecules and breast cancer cell models, enabling detailed molecular analysis and high-resolution mapping at the single-cell level.
To support the interpretation of complex spectral data, the project also explored data analysis approaches, including machine learning methods. Together, these activities established a technological and methodological foundation for advanced molecular sensing, with the long-term goal of application to serum-based liquid biopsy approaches for cancer research and diagnostics.
Beyond its scientific objectives, SIREN contributed to strengthening links between academic research and innovation. By exploring pathways toward scalable sensing technologies and future diagnostic applications, the project supports long-term European efforts in early disease detection, biosensing innovation, and the translation of advanced materials into practical healthcare tools.
