Researchers at The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, are developing a test analyzing fecal DNA for mutations of the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene can identify early cases of colorectal cancer. DNA was extracted from the samples and screened for APC mutations, using a novel approach known as digital protein truncation .
Source: The New England Journal of Medicine, January 31, 2002.

Scientists at University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MI are developing a POC saliva test to detect osteoporosis. Doctors and/or dentists perform the saliva test by giving a patient a piece of flavorless gum. The patient chews on it, then spits saliva in a cup which is then tested in a lab.