BCMaterials Collaborates on the Development of Biosensors for Childhood Cancer

BCMaterials, in partnership with the Aragon University Institute for Engineering Research (I3A) at the University of Zaragoza, is advancing the MICROBIOSENS project — an initiative focused on developing and applying biosensors to evaluate the malignant potential of tumor cells. The project is funded by the Association of Parents of Children with Cancer of Aragon (Aspanoa).

The MICROBIOSENS project aims to design, fabricate, and test an integrated microfluidic system capable of measuring key metabolic parameters in cell culture media, including oxygen concentration, pH, and energy metabolism indicators such as glucose and lactate levels.

The biosensors developed through this initiative will support the early detection and monitoring of pediatric cancers by analyzing critical biomarkers associated with several of the most common childhood tumors. Ultimately, this project seeks to advance rapid biodetection techniques that facilitate early diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment — with the goal of improving outcomes and reducing mortality among children with cancer.

The Urgency of Early Diagnosis in Children

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death among children worldwide, most commonly involving leukemia, central nervous system tumors, and lymphomas. Moreover, pediatric cancers tend to be more aggressive and progress more rapidly than those in adults, underscoring the urgent need for early and preferably minimally invasive diagnostic methods.

BCMaterials brings to the project its extensive expertise in the development of biodetection systems and in the detection and characterization of cancer cells. Meanwhile, I3A contributes its deep knowledge in electromechanical stimulation prototypes, microfluidic technologies, and the study of cancer metabolism.