Cell-free circulating tumour DNA as a non-invasive tool for cancer diagnostics and research

Date:
25
Monday
December
2017
Lecture / Seminar
Time: 14:00-15:00
Title: Cancer Research Club
Location: Max and Lillian Candiotty Building
Lecturer: Prof. Nitzan Rosenfeld
Organizer: Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology
Contact: li.tzoref@weizmann.ac.il
Details: Cancer Research UK, Cambridge Institute University of Cambridge, UK
Abstract: Cancer is driven by genomic alterations, and can evolve in response to selective ... Read more Cancer is driven by genomic alterations, and can evolve in response to selective pressures. Sampling of tumour material however is a limiting factor for both diagnostics and research. Blood plasma contains cell-free fragments of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) that can be collected non-invasively. With advanced genomic techniques this becomes an effective source of information. “Liquid biopsy” assays are now entering clinical use for non-invasive molecular profiling of advanced cancers to guide targeted therapy. Serially-collection plasma samples can be used to track response to treatment, cancer progression and emergence of known or new resistance mechanisms. Methods that can detect minute amounts of ctDNA are being used to study early-stage cancer and for detection of minimal residual disease after initial definitive treatment.
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