Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 23, 2026
Detection of Cell-Free DNA in Blood Plasma Samples of Cancer Patients
Published on: September 9, 2020
Use of cell free DNA in breast oncology
Jenna VanLiere Canzoniero1, Ben Ho Park2
1Division of General Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins, 600 N Wolfe St, Nelson 207, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
Abstract:
Cell free DNA (cfDNA) are short fragments of nucleic acids present in circulation outside of cells. In patients with cancer, some portion of cfDNA is derived from tumor cells, termed circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), and contains the same mutations and genetic changes as the cancer. The development of new, more effective methods to detect these changes has led to increased interest in developing ctDNA as a biomarker for cancer. Here we will review current literature on the use of ctDNA, with an emphasis on breast cancer, for cancer detection, prognosis, monitoring response to therapy, and tracking the rise of new mutant subclones.
Insights
Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), fragments from cancer cells in the blood, show promise as a cancer biomarker. Research reviews ctDNA
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) circulates in the bloodstream.
- A fraction of cfDNA, circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), originates from cancer cells and carries tumor-specific mutations.
- Advances in detection technologies are driving interest in ctDNA as a clinical biomarker.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current literature on the applications of ctDNA.
- To highlight the use of ctDNA in breast cancer detection, prognosis, and therapy monitoring.
- To discuss ctDNA's role in tracking the emergence of new resistant subclones.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on ctDNA.
- Focus on studies involving breast cancer patients.
- Analysis of ctDNA's utility across various clinical applications.
Main Results:
- ctDNA analysis is a rapidly evolving field with significant potential.
- ctDNA shows promise for early cancer detection and monitoring treatment response.
- Tracking ctDNA can reveal tumor heterogeneity and resistance mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- ctDNA is a valuable and versatile biomarker in oncology.
- Its application in breast cancer management is particularly promising.
- Further research will continue to refine ctDNA's role in personalized cancer care.
