The Fermiscan Test is based on using synchrotron-generated X-ray diffraction to identify an alteration of the molecular structure of hair which is associated with the presence of breast cancer. Low angle X-ray diffraction analysis of hair is a well accepted research technique to study hair structure. It has been known for over 60 years that low-angle fibre X-ray diffraction along with appropriate analysis can yield the molecular structure of any material in which there is a regular array of molecules. Hair, with its regular arrays of alpha-keratin, is such a material.

Fermiscan's technology is based on the discovery by Australian scientists that women who have breast cancer have an associated change in the molecular structure of their hair [1]. This altered molecular structure gives rise to an altered alpha-keratin diffraction pattern [2, 3, 4].This change was detected using synchrotron-derived X-rays. Pre-clinical studies by the original scientist indicated that the change may be detected early in tumor development [3]. Fermiscan scientists subsequently confirmed the underlying discovery [4].

Below are two examples of synchrotron-derived X-ray diffraction patterns of hair.

1.Normal diffraction pattern of hair 2. X-ray diffraction pattern of hair from a breast cancer patient, showing the presence of an additional ring (arrowed)

Scientific Background to the Technology

The discovery has led the Fermiscan team to propose a biological process (mechanism) whereby the presence of a breast cancer could affect the X-ray diffraction pattern of hair.

The Fermiscan Test potentially provides early detection of breast cancer. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the greater the benefits from women's health including increased survival and treatment options.

To access references click here

Back to top