Tsinghua University identifies new tumor marker

Scientists at China's Tsinghua University have announced they have identified a protein that shows the presence of cancer, making it easier for doctors to make a diagnosis.

Researchers at Tsinghua University show that the protein, "H-S-P 90 alpha" is five times more prevalent in people with cancer than healthy people. The scientists discovered the elevated levels of the protein in lung cancer tumors and are continuing their research to determine if it can used as a marker to identify liver and stomach cancers.

Prior to the discovery, there were 31 tumor markers, all of which were discovered and identified by scientists in other countries.