Tracking Acute Rejection in Heart Transplant Recipients by Using Donor-Derived Cell-Free DNA: A Promising Approach

Biomarkers play a crucial role in posttransplant monitoring as they enable early detection of graft dysfunction and rejection, thereby facilitating personalized therapeutic interventions. Although recent studies have demonstrated the potential of donor-derived cell-free DNA in monitoring acute rejection episodes in heart transplant recipients, further investigations are required to enhance its diagnostic accuracy and clinical applicability. Comprehensive clinical trials are warranted to establish standardized threshold values and evaluate the diagnostic utility of donor-derived cell-free DNA in identifying various patterns of allograft injury. A thorough investigation into the molecular mechanisms, clinical applications, and quantification methods of donor-derived cell-free DNA could substantially enhance posttransplant management and patient outcomes.