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[Liquid Biopsy and Laboratory Medicine]
Rinsho Byori. the Japanese Journal of Clinical Pathology
|January 7, 2016
Summary
Liquid biopsy, using circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and cell-free DNA (cfDNA), offers a less invasive alternative to traditional biopsies for advanced gastrointestinal cancers. This study demonstrates the feasibility of next-generation sequencing (NGS) and optimized storage of CTCs for clinical applications.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Diagnostics
- Cancer Biology
Context:
- Cancer's molecular profile can differ between primary and metastatic sites, and within tumors (intra-tumor heterogeneity).
- Acquired resistance to chemoradiation therapy occurs rapidly, necessitating dynamic monitoring.
- Single biopsies are insufficient for predicting cancer progression, leading to the proposal of repeated biopsies.
Purpose:
- To assess the feasibility of using liquid biopsy (circulating tumor cells [CTCs] and cell-free DNA [cfDNA]) for next-generation sequencing (NGS) in advanced gastrointestinal cancer patients.
- To optimize protocols for the isolation and storage of CTCs for future molecular analysis.
Summary:
- A microfluidic device was used for CTC isolation, and plasma cfDNA was extracted.
- NGS was successfully performed on liquid biopsy samples from advanced gastrointestinal cancer patients.
- Optimal conditions (95% ethanol fixation followed by -80°C storage) were determined for preserving CTCs after cytospin, using H1975 cells as a model.
Impact:
- This study establishes the potential of liquid biopsy as a viable tool in clinical molecular diagnostics.
- Successful NGS and CTC storage pave the way for new diagnostic and monitoring strategies in oncology.
- The findings support the advancement of liquid biopsy techniques for personalized cancer care.
