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Updated: Mar 5, 2026
Detection and Monitoring of Tumor Associated Circulating DNA in Patient Biofluids
Published on: June 8, 2019
Circulating Tumor DNA for Mutation Detection and Identification of Mechanisms of Resistance in Non-Small Cell Lung
Kay T Yeung1, Soham More1, Brian Woodward1
1University of California San Diego Moores Cancer Center, #3011, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA.
Abstract:
Targeted therapies have changed the treatment landscape of non-small cell lung cancer over the past decade. Analyses of cell free circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) provide a non-invasive and robust approach for cancer diagnosis and prognosis, real-time monitoring of treatment response, and the identification of appropriate therapeutic targets based on the detection of tumor genetic aberrations. Recent improvements in the sensitivity, specificity, and feasibility of ctDNA detection assays allow the possibility for implementation into clinical practice. This review will focus on key studies using ctDNA analysis in early lung cancer detection, prediction of treatment response, monitoring minimal residual disease and disease relapse, and the identification of resistance mechanisms. We explore how ctDNA can be used as a surrogate for tissue biopsy and an integral biomarker in the clinical management of patients with non-small cell lung cancer.
Insights
Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis offers a non-invasive method for non-small cell lung cancer management. This approach aids in early detection, treatment monitoring, and identifying resistance, serving as a vital biomarker.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Diagnostics
- Genomics
Background:
- Targeted therapies have revolutionized non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment.
- Cell-free circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis presents a non-invasive method for cancer management.
- Advances in ctDNA detection enhance its clinical utility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review key studies on ctDNA analysis in NSCLC.
- To explore ctDNA's role in early detection, treatment response, and relapse monitoring.
- To highlight ctDNA as a surrogate for tissue biopsy and a clinical management biomarker.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent studies utilizing ctDNA analysis in NSCLC.
- Focus on ctDNA's application in early diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment monitoring.
- Exploration of ctDNA for identifying resistance mechanisms and minimal residual disease.
Main Results:
- ctDNA analysis is effective for cancer diagnosis and prognosis.
- It enables real-time monitoring of treatment response.
- ctDNA assays can identify therapeutic targets and resistance mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- ctDNA analysis is a robust, non-invasive tool for NSCLC management.
- It serves as a valuable biomarker, complementing or replacing tissue biopsies.
- ctDNA holds significant potential for widespread clinical application in NSCLC.
