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Updated: Apr 21, 2026
A Standardized Liquid Biopsy Preanalytical Protocol for Downstream Circulating-Free DNA Applications
Published on: September 16, 2022
Real-time liquid biopsy: circulating tumor cells versus circulating tumor DNA
Catherine Alix-Panabières1, Klaus Pantel1
11 University Medical Centre, Saint-Eloi Hospital, Institute of Research in Biotherapy, Department of Cell and Tissue Biopathology of Tumors, Laboratory of Rare Human Circulating Cells, Montpellier, France ; 2 University Institute of Clinical Research UM1-EA2415-Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Public Health, Montpellier, France ; 3 Department of Tumor Biology, Centre of Experimental Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany.
Liquid biopsy analyzes circulating tumor DNA and cells for cancer mutations. This approach offers future perspectives for managing drug resistance in oncology.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Diagnostics
- Genetics
Background:
- Liquid biopsy is an emerging diagnostic tool.
- It involves analyzing circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and cell-free circulating tumor DNA (cfctDNA).
- These biomarkers are released from metastatic deposits into peripheral blood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the current challenges associated with liquid biopsy in clinical oncology.
- To explore the future perspectives and potential of liquid biopsy.
- To highlight its role in understanding and managing cancer drug resistance.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature and clinical applications of liquid biopsy.
- Analysis of therapeutic targets and gene mutations related to drug resistance.
- Focus on circulating tumor cells and cell-free circulating tumor DNA.
Main Results:
- Liquid biopsy enables the detection of key genetic mutations for targeted therapy.
- It provides insights into the mechanisms of acquired drug resistance.
- The concept facilitates non-invasive monitoring of treatment response.
Conclusions:
- Liquid biopsy presents significant challenges but holds immense promise for clinical oncology.
- It is expected to enhance the understanding and management of drug resistance.
- This diagnostic approach will likely become integral to personalized cancer care.
