Origin Sciences Publishes Landmark OriCol™ Study in Nature Communications

Today marks a major milestone for Origin Sciences with the publication of our latest research in Nature Communications: “Hologenomic analysis of rectal mucus sampling for detection of adenomatous polyps and colorectal cancer.”

The study demonstrates how OriCol™, our simple 90-second clinic-based test, can help detect bowel cancer and pre-cancerous polyps earlier—without bowel preparation, laxatives, or sedation. Using the OriCol™ device, a trained healthcare professional can collect a rectal mucus sample quickly and comfortably in a community or outpatient setting.

The research analysed data from more than 800 patients across four NHS hospitals. Results showed that OriCol™ could safely rule out serious bowel disease in around 80% of symptomatic patients, while accurately identifying those at higher risk who could then be fast-tracked for colonoscopy.

This approach has the potential to significantly reduce waiting lists, ease pressure on endoscopy services, and help patients receive answers sooner—enabling earlier, potentially lifesaving treatment.

Each year, more than 750,000 people in the UK are referred for colonoscopy, yet many undergo this invasive procedure only to be told there is no serious disease. By providing rapid reassurance for the majority, OriCol™ can help ensure colonoscopy resources are focused on those who need them most, including the 44,000 people diagnosed with colorectal cancer annually.

We would like to thank our NHS collaborators, the clinical teams at the TRIOMIC trial site in Telford, and the thousands of patients who made this research possible—particularly The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust, Jon Lacy-Colson, and Jo Williams.