Evaluation of ct-DNA and Mutational Status in Liquid Biopsy of Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Introduction Liquid biopsy has become an increasingly important tool in clinical oncology due to the utility of circulating tumor DNA (ct-DNA). Plasma ct-DNA levels reflect a patient’s tumor burden and provide valuable information for personalized treatment strategies. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most frequently diagnosed malignancies worldwide and remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. The implementation of personalized therapy can significantly improve clinical outcomes in these patients. Aim This study aimed to evaluate ct-DNA in patients with metastatic CRC undergoing therapy in our department, using next-generation sequencing (NGS) to identify tumor mutations in both tissue and cell-free plasma DNA. Methods A total of 45 patients newly diagnosed with metastatic CRC were enrolled in the study. ct-DNA evaluation was performed at diagnosis, and both tissue and plasma samples were analyzed using NGS to assess the mutational profile. Results The most frequent mutation identified was in KRAS. A high level of concordance was observed between tissue and plasma samples regarding ct-DNA detection and mutational status. Sequential ct-DNA analysis during therapy revealed dynamic changes in mutation profiles over the course of treatment. Conclusion Liquid biopsy offers significant clinical value as a minimally invasive tool for personalized therapy in metastatic CRC. NGS-based liquid biopsy enables real-time evaluation of ct-DNA and mutation status during treatment, supporting therapeutic decision-making and disease monitoring.
Authors: Zarkavelis, George, Yerolatsite, Melina, Ntellas, Panagiotis, Tsantikidi, Aikaterini, Papadopoulou, Irene, Torounidou, Nanteznta, Dadouli, Katerina, Nasioulas, George, Kampletsas, Eleftherios, Pentheroudakis, George
Institutions: University Hospital of Ioannina, University of Thessaly
Language: English
Subfield: Cancer Research
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7106213581
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