QTAS

QTAS is developing a new platform for detecting and sorting rare cells. The first use case is a liquid biopsy platform that uses quantum sensing-based magnetic resonance detection of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) directly in whole blood without the need for sample enrichment. This approach addresses the clinical challenge of monitoring response to cancer treatments in real-time, a process that currently relies on 3–6 months of imaging and the detection of surrogate biomarkers. In proof-of-concept studies, the technology has demonstrated single-cell sensitivity with high specificity (mediated via magnetic beads) directly in whole blood samples, resulting in an ability to detect changes in CTCs in days. QTAS aims to enable clinicians and pharmaceutical teams to unlock better diagnostics, therapy decisions, and translational research through precise access to rare cells and downstream analyses such as single-cell sequencing. Relevance to Patients: Improved sensitivity for measuring circulating tumour cells promises to help clinicians monitor treatment selection quickly, helping doctors adjust care quickly so patients receive the most effective treatment sooner.