Circulating Cell-Free DNA Differentiates Severity of Inflammation

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Immunology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• The aging U.S. population faces a rising incidence of chronic diseases, often associated with chronic inflammation.
• Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is increasingly recognized for its potential role in inflammatory processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and summarize existing literature on the relationship between cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and inflammation.
• To explore cfDNA's association with acute inflammation, chronic inflammation, autoimmunity, and infection.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science.
• Inclusion criteria focused on noninterventional human studies published after 2000, utilizing fluorescence DNA quantification for acute/chronic inflammation, autoimmunity, or infection.

Main Results:

• Thirteen studies met the criteria, examining acute inflammation, chronic inflammation, and infection.
• Significant differences in cfDNA levels were observed across conditions, with variations dependent on quantification methods.
• cfDNA levels correlated with mortality and clinical outcomes in acute inflammation and infection, though associations with other biomarkers were inconclusive.

Conclusions:

• A discernible association exists between cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and inflammation.
• Further investigation is required to establish cfDNA's clinical utility as a reliable inflammation biomarker.