FURI | Spring 2022

Analysis of Small Cell Lung Cancer-Specific Volatile Organic Compounds in Hypoxic Conditions

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, where 84% of cases are diagnosed late when treatments are no longer effective. Limitations in current diagnostic tools have resulted in dedicated research identifying volatile organic compounds (VOCs) specific to cancer. Due to altered biochemical pathways, it is hypothesized that different cancer cells have unique VOC expression. This project utilizes recent research by studying VOCs specific to small cell lung cancer. This is the first step in developing a screening test for the accurate detection of lung cancer to improve patient prognosis and reduce mortality for improved patient outcomes.