Clinical Utility of ctDNA Analysis in Lung Cancer-A Review

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• Circulating free DNA (cfDNA) comprises genetic material released from cells into bodily fluids.
• Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), a fraction of cfDNA, originates from tumor cells and carries their genetic and epigenetic alterations.
• Liquid biopsy, utilizing ctDNA, provides a minimally invasive method for cancer diagnostics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on blood ctDNA liquid biopsy in the context of lung cancer.
• To discuss the role of ctDNA in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) diagnosis, genetic profiling, and treatment monitoring.
• To explore future directions for ctDNA implementation in NSCLC management.

Main Methods:

• Detection of ctDNA in blood samples using methods such as next-generation sequencing (NGS) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
• Analysis of ctDNA for mutations and epigenetic changes characteristic of tumors.
• Application of liquid biopsy as a complementary diagnostic and genetic profiling tool.

Main Results:

• Liquid biopsy is currently an approved complementary method for NSCLC diagnosis and genetic profiling.
• Investigational applications include detecting minimal residual disease (MRD) post-treatment and monitoring systemic treatment response.
• ctDNA analysis holds significant potential for advancing NSCLC patient care.

Conclusions:

• ctDNA-based liquid biopsy is a valuable tool in NSCLC management.
• Further research and development are crucial for expanding its clinical applications.
• Liquid biopsy represents a promising avenue for improving outcomes in lung cancer patients.