The Platform Optimizing SynBio for Early Intervention and Detection in Oncology (POSEIDON) program, initiated by ARPA-H, seeks to revolutionize cancer screening by enabling early detection of more than 30 types of solid tumors at Stage 1. Early-stage cancer detection significantly improves survival rates, yet current technologies and screenings are limited in scope and often fail to identify cancers until symptoms arise. POSEIDON aims to address these gaps by developing affordable, over-the-counter multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests for home use, empowering individuals to detect cancer before symptoms develop.

POSEIDON’s primary goal is to create non-invasive synthetic sensors and reporters capable of identifying a broad range of cancers through simple breath or urine samples. These tests will be designed for at-home use, making cancer screening accessible to a wider population and reducing reliance on hospital visits. The program will integrate results into electronic health records, enabling users to connect with healthcare professionals via telemedicine for follow-up care. By offering easy-to-use, human-centered kits, POSEIDON seeks to democratize cancer detection and minimize the economic and emotional toll of late-stage diagnoses.

The program’s technical objectives are twofold: developing synthetic biology-based tools to detect solid tumors and creating low-cost, user-friendly test kits that include all necessary hardware and software. ARPA-H is partnering with the National Cancer Institute’s Cancer Screening Research Network to ensure rigorous development and clinical validation of POSEIDON's technology. This collaboration is aimed at ensuring the accessibility, affordability, and effectiveness of these groundbreaking cancer screening tools.

Prospective proposers are encouraged to form interdisciplinary teams to address the program’s ambitious goals. The Proposers' Day event recording and a dedicated teaming page are available to facilitate networking and collaboration. Proposals must outline innovative solutions aligned with POSEIDON’s objectives, with submissions due by January 22, 2025. Teams will be evaluated on the feasibility, scalability, and potential impact of their solutions.

Through its human-centered approach, POSEIDON is committed to ensuring that the tests are designed to be inclusive and usable by all Americans. By significantly broadening access to early detection, POSEIDON envisions a shift in how cancer is diagnosed and treated, ultimately saving lives and reducing healthcare costs. This initiative exemplifies ARPA-H’s dedication to transformative health innovations that benefit a wide range of individuals and communities.