Circulating nucleic acids in plasma and serum: past, present and future

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Oncology

Background:

• Circulating nucleic acids (cell-free DNA and RNA) are present in plasma/serum across various cancer types.
• Their detection is facilitated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques, enabling analysis from minimal biological samples.
• Elevated levels are observed in malignancy, infections, and pregnancy, indicating broad diagnostic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the clinical utility of circulating nucleic acids for disease surveillance.
• To highlight the role of cell-free DNA and RNA in cancer detection and management.
• To discuss the potential of non-invasive nucleic acid-based assays for patient assessment.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the identification of genetic alterations.
• Analyzing plasma/serum and other body fluids for the presence of circulating nucleic acids.
• Evaluating the diagnostic and prognostic value of cell-free DNA and RNA levels.

Main Results:

• Circulating nucleic acids are detectable in plasma/serum of cancer patients.
• Increased levels of cell-free DNA and RNA correlate with malignancy and other medical conditions.
• Fetal nucleic acids in maternal blood offer insights into pregnancy status.

Conclusions:

• Circulating nucleic acid analysis provides a practical, non-invasive approach for disease surveillance.
• These biomarkers hold significant potential for cancer screening, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment monitoring.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the characteristics and implications of circulating cell-free DNA and RNA.