Towards systematic nomenclature for cell-free DNA

Area of Science:

• Biomolecular analysis
• Genomic medicine
• Clinical diagnostics

Background:

• Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) shows promise as a biomarker for genomic disorders and clinical monitoring.
• Current research is hindered by a lack of standardized and unambiguous cfDNA nomenclature.
• Precise terminology is crucial for advancing cfDNA applications in diagnostics and research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a clear and universal nomenclature for cell-free DNA (cfDNA).
• To classify cfDNA types based on origin, genetic traits, and location.
• To propose standardized terms and abbreviations for improved cfDNA stratification.

Main Methods:

• Classification of cfDNA molecules by origin, genetic traits, and locality.
• Assignment of existing terms and proposal of new nomenclature for cfDNA subtypes.
• Contextual application of proposed nomenclature in oncology, prenatal testing, and transplant surveillance.

Main Results:

• A systematic classification of cfDNA types with proposed standardized terminology.
• Recommendations for the application of this nomenclature across various clinical domains.
• Potential extension of the nomenclature framework to cell-free RNA (cfRNA) and nucleic acids (NAs).

Conclusions:

• The proposed cfDNA nomenclature aims to overcome current research obstacles.
• Standardized terminology will facilitate the advancement of cfDNA applications.
• The framework offers a foundation for universal nomenclature in cfDNA and related molecules.