Research priorities to move ctDNA assays into clinical decision making in early-stage breast cancer
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA)-based Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) assays are increasingly utilised in early-stage breast cancer; but evidence for decision-making remains incomplete. The Breast International Group (BIG) and National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN) ctDNA working group identified research priorities to advance these assays toward clinical utility: clinical trial designs proving utility and affordability; validating ctDNA dynamics as surrogate endpoint; standardising assays; and evaluating patient-reported outcomes and equity. Prospective, randomised evidence remains essential before implementation.
Source: npj Breast Cancer
Institutions: BC Cancer Agency, Harvard University, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montpellier, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University of Genoa, Fred Hutch Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Yale University, Johns Hopkins University, University of Edinburgh, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, Duke Cancer Institute, Cancer Trials Ireland, Institut Jules Bordet, Canadian Cancer Trials Group
Language: English
Subfield: Cancer Research
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,790
OpenAlex ID: W7223179829