Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 5, 2025

Detection of Cell-Free DNA in Blood Plasma Samples of Cancer Patients
Published on: September 9, 2020
[Liquid biopsy in diagnosis of central nervous system tumors]
A V Gavryushin1,2, A A Veselkov1, E A Khukhlaeva1
1Burdenko Neurosurgical Center, Moscow, Russia.
Abstract:
Tumor tissue samples are necessary for histological diagnosis. Biopsy is associated with certain difficulties, especially in neuro-oncology. An alternative approach (liquid biopsy) is currently being developed. The last one is based on analysis of biological fluids regarding DNA of tumors and other biomarkers. This less invasive diagnostic method may be valuable to overcome the disadvantages of traditional biopsy.
Objective:
To analyze available literature data on potential benefits and disadvantages of liquid biopsy.
Material And Methods:
We reviewed the PubMed database throughout the last 18 years.
Results:
The main targets for liquid biopsy are circulating tumor cells, extracellular vesicles, free circulating DNA and tumor microRNA. Analysis of these biomarkers is perspective for diagnostics and assessment of diseases in neuro-oncology. However, this technique is still poorly understood and has limitations. Therefore, further research is required to explore its capabilities for wider use in clinical practice.
Conclusion:
Tissue and liquid biopsy can improve the accuracy of diagnosis, assessment of prognosis and effectiveness of treatment of CNS tumors.

