Sniffing out cancer: dogs and polymers tested for breast cancer scent
NCT ID NCT04541537
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This study explored whether breast cancer has a unique smell that can be detected. Researchers used a special polymer (Sorbstar®) and trained dogs to sniff samples from 35 women before and after tumor removal. The goal was to see if a distinct scent signature exists, which could lead to a new way to diagnose breast cancer.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could lead to a new, non-invasive way to detect breast cancer using scent.
- What could go wrong
- This was a very small, early feasibility study with only 35 participants. The results may not apply to everyone, and the method is still experimental.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Institut Curie
Paris, 75005, France
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