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Updated: Dec 31, 2025
Micromanipulation of Circulating Tumor Cells for Downstream Molecular Analysis and Metastatic Potential Assessment
Published on: May 14, 2019
Cell-free circulating epimarks in cancer monitoring
Manon Duforestel1,2,3,4, Joséphine Briand1,2,3,4, Gwenola Bougras-Cartron1,2,3,4
1CRCINA, INSERM, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France.
Abstract:
Cancer numbers increasing, cases heterogeneity and the drug resistance emergence have pushed scientists to search for innovative solutions for patients and epimutations can be one. Methylated DNA, modified nucleosomes and noncoding RNAs are found in all cells, including tumor cells. They are intracellular actors but also have intercellular communication roles, being released in extracellular environment and in different body fluids. Here, we reviewed current literature on the use of these blood circulating epimarks in cancer monitoring. What stands out is that epimarkers must be considered as 'real time' images of the tumor, and can be isolated without invasive methods. In the future, the real challenge lies in the development of specific, sensitive, fast and clinically applicable detection and analysis methods of epimarkers.
Insights
Epigenetic marks (epimarkers) in blood offer real-time, non-invasive cancer monitoring. Future research aims to develop faster, more sensitive detection methods for clinical application.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Rising cancer incidence, heterogeneity, and drug resistance necessitate novel diagnostic and monitoring strategies.
- Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, nucleosome alterations, and noncoding RNAs, are crucial cellular components.
- These epigenetic factors function both intracellularly and in intercellular communication via extracellular release.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current literature on the application of circulating epigenetic markers (epimarkers) for cancer monitoring.
- To highlight the potential of epimarkers as non-invasive indicators of tumor status.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive review of existing scientific literature.
- Analysis of studies investigating blood-based epigenetic markers in cancer patients.
Main Results:
- Circulating epimarkers provide a dynamic, real-time representation of tumor characteristics.
- Isolation of these epimarkers from bodily fluids is achievable through non-invasive methods.
Conclusions:
- Epimarkers hold significant promise for non-invasive cancer monitoring.
- Further development of sensitive, specific, rapid, and clinically applicable detection technologies is essential for widespread adoption.
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