title: Liquid Biopsies, What We Do Not Know (Yet).
abstract: The inherent molecular heterogeneity of metastatic tumors and the ability of cancer genomes to dynamically evolve are not properly captured by tissue specimens. Analysis of cell-free DNA and circulating tumor cells has the potential to change clinical practice by exploiting blood rather than tissue as a source of information. Liquid biopsies are already used to monitor disease response and track the emergence of drug resistance. The suitability of blood-based molecular profiles for early detection and monitoring minimal residual disease is being evaluated. In this review, we address open questions in this fast-evolving field of research.
authors.affiliation: University of Torino, Department of Oncology, SP 142, Km 3.95, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy; Candiolo Cancer Institute - FPO, IRCCS, Candiolo, Torino, Italy. Electronic address: alberto.bardelli@unito.it.
authors.forename: Alberto
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Bardelli
authors.affiliation: Department of Tumor Biology, Center of Experimental Medicine, University Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraβe 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany. Electronic address: pantel@uke.de.
authors.forename: Klaus
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Pantel
mesh_terms: D001706:Biopsy; D004273:DNA, Neoplasm / Q000097:blood*; D055088:Early Detection of Cancer; D055354:Exosomes; D060005:Genotyping Techniques; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D009360:Neoplastic Cells, Circulating
chemical_list: D004273:DNA, Neoplasm