Biofluids manipulation methods for liquid biopsy in minimally-invasive assays

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Clinical Diagnostics

Background:

• Liquid Biopsy (LB) provides a non-invasive alternative to tissue biopsy for disease diagnosis and prognosis.
• Body fluids contain numerous biomarkers offering insights into various pathologies.
• Emerging biological fluids, easily collected without medical staff, are gaining attention for biomarker analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review handling and storage methods for non-traditional body fluid samples.
• To present protocols for analyzing metabolites, nucleic acids, proteins, and Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) from these fluids.
• To emphasize the importance of proper sample management for diagnostic test reliability.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on sample collection and handling techniques.
• Description of methods for preserving biomarker integrity in various body fluids.
• Outline of analytical protocols for diverse biomolecules and EVs.

Main Results:

• Identified critical factors affecting biomarker stability in biological fluids, including temperature, storage duration, and physical stress.
• Detailed specific handling protocols for Saliva, Urine, Stool, Seminal Fluid, Tears, and Sweat.
• Provided guidelines for the analysis of key biomarkers like metabolites, nucleic acids, proteins, and EVs.

Conclusions:

• Proper handling and storage of non-traditional body fluid samples are essential for the integrity of liquid biopsy.
• Standardized protocols can enhance the reliability and accuracy of diagnostic and screening tests.
• This review facilitates the broader adoption of diverse biological fluids for non-invasive diagnostics.