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Preoperative ctDNA retains prognostic relevance beyond postoperative assessment in stage II-III colon cancer

  • 0Mediterranean Institute of Oncology, 95029, Viagrande, Catania, Italy.
Clinical and Experimental Medicine +

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June 30, 2025

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June 30, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Preoperative circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) detection in liquid biopsies predicts relapse in stage II-III colon cancer. Post-surgery ctDNA levels were less predictive, highlighting the value of preoperative analysis for prognosis.

Area Of Science

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Diagnostics
  • Genomics

Background

  • Liquid biopsy using cell-free DNA (cfDNA) offers a noninvasive method for detecting circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in cancer patients.
  • This study explores liquid biopsy's prognostic potential in stage II-III colon cancer, analyzing ctDNA before and after surgery.

Discussion

  • Preoperative ctDNA detection significantly correlates with disease relapse, establishing it as a potential predictive biomarker.
  • Post-surgical ctDNA monitoring during adjuvant chemotherapy showed diminished predictive value, possibly due to treatment influences.

Key Insights

  • Next-generation sequencing (NGS) of tumor tissue combined with droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) analysis of cfDNA provides a comprehensive approach.
  • Preoperative ctDNA analysis is crucial for prognostic information in stage II-III colon cancer.

Outlook

  • Liquid biopsy demonstrates promise as a noninvasive, repeatable tool for monitoring treatment response and disease progression.
  • Further research may refine ctDNA's role in guiding therapeutic decisions and improving patient outcomes in colon cancer.

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