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The role of extrachromosomal DNA in tumorigenesis and progression

Xiaoyang Ma1,2, Xiaolin Yu1,2, Chuan Wu1,2

  • 1Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zigong Fourth People's Hospital, Zigong, China.

Frontiers in Oncology
|October 1, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) drives cancer progression and drug resistance in tumors. This review details ecDNA

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Genetics
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) is prevalent in various tumors, unlike normal cells.
  • ecDNA significantly contributes to oncogene expression and genomic instability.
  • The presence of ecDNA is linked to poor patient prognosis and treatment resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To comprehensively review the structure, genetics, occurrence, outcomes, and functions of ecDNA.
  • To provide a foundational reference for ongoing ecDNA research.
  • To highlight ecDNA's role as a driver in tumor evolution.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing research on ecDNA.
  • Analysis of studies detailing ecDNA's molecular characteristics.
  • Compilation of data on ecDNA's clinical relevance and functional impact.

Main Results:

  • ecDNA exhibits unique structural and genetic properties.
  • Its occurrence is specific to tumor cells, correlating with disease severity.
  • ecDNA actively promotes oncogene amplification and therapeutic resistance.

Conclusions:

  • ecDNA is a critical factor in tumor development and progression.
  • Understanding ecDNA's multifaceted roles is essential for targeted cancer therapies.
  • Further research into ecDNA mechanisms will inform future treatment strategies.
Keywords:
cancer progressionecDNAheterogeneityoncogenetumorigenesis

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