A recent study by researchers from the Francis Crick Institute and University College London, published in Nature Medicine, highlights the potential of using a blood test to detect circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) for predicting lung cancer outcomes.
Key Findings:
- Researchers utilized a whole-genome sequencing platform called NeXT Personal, capable of detecting extremely small amounts of ctDNA (as low as 1 part per million).
- The study analyzed blood plasma samples from 171 individuals with early-stage lung cancer.
- Results revealed that patients with low levels of ctDNA before surgery were less likely to experience relapse and had better overall survival rates compared to those with high levels of ctDNA.
What is ctDNA?
- According to MedlinePlus, Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) refers to fragments of DNA released into the bloodstream from dying cancer cells.
- These fragments are typically short pieces of DNA (fewer than 200 nucleotides) and originate from cancerous cells and tumors as they grow and shed cells.
- Measuring ctDNA is challenging due to its minute concentration in the bloodstream, but advancements like NeXT Personal make detection more accurate.
Clinical Applications:
- Disease Prognosis: ctDNA levels can indicate the likelihood of cancer recurrence and overall patient outcomes.
- Treatment Personalization:
- Identifies patients most likely to benefit from specific treatments.
- Helps monitor therapy responses more effectively and quickly compared to imaging scans.
- Allows for timely adjustments to treatment plans if the current regimen is ineffective.
- Early Intervention: Detecting ctDNA offers a sensitive way to track disease progression or relapse, enabling earlier interventions.
(Sources: DD News & MedlinePlus )
