Studying the health effects of meditation – tools for cancer treatment and early detection
The benefits of mental concentration exercises – ranging from stress reduction to cardiovascular health – are widely recognized. Research suggests that mindfulness practices can reduce inflammation and stimulate cellular repair processes, which are essential for maintaining long-term health.
Researchers from the University of Oulu are involved in the international MindGAP research project, which seeks biochemical explanations for the mechanisms between the brain and body – how and why the body becomes ill and whether the mind can influence disease susceptibility.
To find answers, the study examined the molecules transported by extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their role in cellular communication.
Professor Seppo Vainio´s research group analyzed the blood plasma of cancer survivors, studying the molecular composition of EVs. Additionally, researchers compared individuals who regularly practice meditation with those who do not.
The study successfully identified seven microRNAs in extracellular vesicles that may be linked to the health benefits of meditation.
These findings are considered significant, as they suggest that meditation may influence intercellular communication in ways that promote overall health. MicroRNAs are small genetic materials that regulate gene expression in cells and can impact processes such as inflammatory responses and cellular repair.
The project also achieved another breakthrough: Researchers from VTT and the University of Oulu developed a new device capable of detecting messages carried by extracellular vesicles in the bloodstream.
To achieve this, scientists developed synthetic antibodies using disposable, credit card-sized ampoules designed to isolate and analyze the molecules transported by extracellular vesicles from blood samples. These synthetic antibodies are polymer-based materials engineered to mimic the function of natural antibodies.
This technology enables multiple steps to be performed within a single device, allowing for cost-effective and practical microRNA analysis. Rapid and affordable microRNA detection is a crucial technique that could aid in diagnosing cancer, cardiovascular diseases, Alzheimer's disease, and other neurodegenerative disorders.
According to Professor Caglar Elbuken, this device represents a significant advancement in early disease diagnosis and prevention. The technology has far-reaching potential, as microRNA is an increasingly important focus in medical research.
The MindGAP project is coordinated by the University of Coimbra and includes participants from the University of Oulu, VTT, Linnaeus University (Sweden), and the Portuguese Cancer Institute. The research project was funded by the EU Horizon program with a budget of €4.4 million and was conducted from 2019 to 2024.
Vainio Lab – Seppo Vainio’s research group
Elbuken Lab – Caglar Elbuken’s research group