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Lesion-Directed Therapies and Monitoring Tumor Evolution Using Liquid Biopsies

Mariangela Russo1,2, Alberto Bardelli1,2

  • 1Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy.

Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine
|December 23, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Liquid biopsies using circulating free DNA (cfDNA) can track tumor evolution and drug resistance. This approach helps personalize cancer treatment by monitoring molecular changes over time.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genomics

Background:

  • Precision oncology uses targeted drugs based on tumor molecular profiles from tissue samples.
  • Tumor evolution under drug pressure presents a significant diagnostic challenge.
  • Monitoring these molecular changes is crucial for effective treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To demonstrate the utility of liquid biopsies in tracking tumor evolution.
  • To investigate how targeted therapies induce drug resistance mechanisms.
  • To understand the impact of molecular heterogeneity on treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of circulating free DNA (cfDNA) from liquid biopsies.
  • Continuous molecular profiling of primary and metastatic lesions.
  • Interrogation of lesion-specific drug-resistance mechanisms.

Main Results:

  • Evidence showing liquid biopsies can effectively map tumor molecular evolution.
  • Demonstration of how targeted therapies drive specific resistance mechanisms.
  • Assessment of drug-induced molecular heterogeneity's impact on treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Liquid biopsies offer a dynamic approach to monitoring cancer treatment response.
  • cfDNA analysis enables continuous updates of tumor molecular maps.
  • This method aids in adapting subsequent treatment lines based on evolving resistance patterns.

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