New pioneering research recently conducted at the University of Cambridge has taken cancer research a leap forward in the early detection of the disease.

Vivamer, the first spin-out from the Department of Chemical Engineering, recently concluded a project for the Engineering and Physical Science Research Council (EPSRC) investigating the potential for single-molecule sensing that could aid earlier diagnosis of cancer and many other diseases. The technique identifies localised changes in physiology so enabling early detection of tumours. The project has successfully provided a platform for continued investigation into this innovative technique.

The company was formed by Professor Nigel Slater and Dr Mark Eccleston with the University’s Technology Transfer Office in December 2002. It obtained financing from the University of Cambridge Challenge Fund to exploit their work in responsive polymer chemistry. The goal is to utilise proprietary polymers for drug delivery for anti-cancer applications and for diagnostic imaging. A unique aspect of the work is producing a bio-degradable, bio-compatible polymer with a structure that reacts to its environment.

The company has developed polymers that work similarly to proteins found on the surfaces of viruses, facilitating entry to cells and subsequently the nucleus. For example, by exploiting differences in the pH at the site of the disease and within certain parts of a cell, the Vivamer polymer could enter, and deliver anti-cancer drugs, directly to cells in a tumour. This provides greater control over patient's treatment, making it more efficient and effective.

The primary business focus of the company is in healthcare applications, but variations of the technology have numerous other applications in the consumer product and food areas where the triggered release of some product ingredients is required.

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