Journal of Capital Medical University ›› 2023, Vol. 44 ›› Issue (6): 999-1005.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-7795.2023.06.015

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Application of circulating tumor DNA in digestive system neoplasms

Yu Mingxin, Yang Aiming*   

  1. Department of Gastroenterology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
  • Received:2023-08-15 Online:2023-12-21 Published:2023-12-20
  • Supported by:
    This study was supported by National Key Clinical Specialty Construction Project (ZK108000).

Abstract: Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is a type of circulating free DNA (cfDNA), which is released into the blood by apoptotic or necrotic tumor cells, or directly secreted by tumors. ctDNA carries tumor-specific genetic and epigenetic characteristics, including gene mutations, chromosome rearrangements, copy number variations, and methylation changes. ctDNA liquid biopsy technique has the advantages of easy operation, high repeatability and minimal invasion. ctDNA can be used to screen and diagnose early stage of digestive system tumor, guide treatment, monitor therapeutic effect, analyze postoperative residual lesions and prevent disease recurrence. This article discusses the biological characteristics, detection methods, and application of ctDNA in digestive system neoplasms.

Key words: circulating tumor DNA, circulating free DNA, liquid biopsy, digestive system neoplasms

CLC Number: