Google explores early warning system for serious illnesses

Google is exploring ways to search people's bodies for early signs of deadly illnesses such as cancer or heart disease.

A team at the Google X Lab is experimenting with having "nanoparticles" seek signs of trouble and then report findings to sensors people wear.

"This is still early-stage research, but we've done a number of promising experiments," Google said.

Imagined applications include a test for enzymes from arterial plaques about to rupture and cause a heart attack or stroke.

Batches of nanoparticles could be swallowed and absorbed into the bloodstream, where they would stick to targeted cells such as cancer.

Magnetic qualities designed into nanoparticles allowed them to be checked using non-invasive detection methods such as light or radio waves, Google said.