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Circulating nucleic acids and apoptosis

A V Lichtenstein1, H S Melkonyan, L D Tomei

  • 1Cancer Research Center, Moscow, Russia.

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|November 16, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Circulating cell-free DNA in plasma and urine, including transrenal DNA, is being investigated. Apoptotic cells are a likely source, with potential implications for understanding DNA clearance mechanisms.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Renal Physiology

Background:

  • Plasma DNA originates from various body tissues, including fetal and tumor cells.
  • A fraction of plasma DNA is filtered by the kidneys, appearing as transrenal DNA in urine.
  • Mechanisms of circulating DNA generation and renal clearance are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the origins and forms of circulating DNA in plasma and urine.
  • To discuss factors influencing tissue and genomic representation in plasma DNA.
  • To investigate potential mechanisms of renal DNA clearance and urine DNA isolation challenges.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and theoretical discussion of circulating DNA and renal clearance.
  • Analysis of existing data on plasma and urine DNA.
  • Hypothesizing the role of apoptosis in DNA release and clearance.

Main Results:

  • Apoptotic cells are proposed as a significant source of DNA in both plasma and urine.
  • Circulating DNA, particularly within apoptotic bodies, may be represented in urine.
  • Challenges in isolating and analyzing urine DNA are acknowledged.

Conclusions:

  • Apoptosis is a key mechanism for circulating DNA release into plasma and urine.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate the precise molecular and physiological pathways involved.
  • Understanding transrenal DNA offers insights into both systemic and renal processes.

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