Perspective - (2024) Volume 15, Issue 2
Received: 01-May-2024, Manuscript No. JPP-24-26061; Editor assigned: 03-May-2024, Pre QC No. JPP-24-26061 (PQ); Reviewed: 17-May-2024, QC No. JPP-24-26061; Revised: 24-May-2024, Manuscript No. JPP-24-26061 (R); Published: 31-May-2024, DOI: 10.35248/2153-0645.24.15.098
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer, predominantly linked to asbestos exposure that arises from the mesothelial cells lining the pleura, peritoneum, pericardium, and tunica vaginalis. The prognosis for mesothelioma remains poor, with a median survival time of approximately 12 months following diagnosis. Traditional diagnostic and monitoring methods, such as imaging and tissue biopsies, often fail to provide timely and precise information about the disease’s progression or response to treatment. In this context, liquid biopsy has emerged as a promising non-invasive alternative. Specifically, the analysis of Cell-Free DNA (cfDNA) circulating in the blood offers a potential avenue for individualized and real-time monitoring of mesothelioma.
Cell-free DNA refers to fragments of DNA released into the bloodstream from apoptotic or necrotic cells. In cancer patients, a portion of cfDNA, known as circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), originates from the tumour itself, carrying genetic and epigenetic alterations characteristic of the malignancy. Recent advancements in sequencing technologies have enabled the detailed analysis of ctDNA, providing insights into tumour heterogeneity, genetic mutations, and other molecular aberrations. A novel approach within this domain involves focusing on chromosomal junctions—specific regions where chromosomal rearrangements occur. These junctions are unique to each tumour and can serve as personalized markers for cancer monitoring. By tracking these individualized chromosomal junctions in cfDNA, clinicians can achieve a more precise and dynamic understanding of mesothelioma's progression and response to treatment.
The process of utilizing chromosomal junctions for cfDNA monitoring involves several key steps are identification of chromosomal unctions initially, Whole-Genome Sequencing (WGS) or targeted sequencing of the tumor tissue is performed to identify unique chromosomal rearrangements. These rearrangements serve as fingerprints for the tumor.
Based on the identified junctions, personalized assays are developed to specifically detect these rearrangements in cfDNA. Techniques such as Digital Droplet PCR (ddPCR) or Next- Generation Sequencing (NGS) are commonly used.
Blood sample collection and cfDNA isolation
Blood samples from the patient are collected at various time points. cfDNA is then extracted from the plasma component of the blood.
The personalized assays are applied to the extracted cfDNA to detect and quantify the presence of chromosomal junctions. Changes in the levels of these junctions over time provide information on tumour dynamics. The results are interpreted in the context of clinical information to monitor disease progression, treatment response, or recurrence. The use of individualized cfDNA monitoring with chromosomal junctions in mesothelioma offers several potential benefits:
Early detection of recurrence are traditional imaging methods may not detect recurrent disease until it is relatively advanced. In contrast, cfDNA monitoring can identify molecular changes indicative of recurrence at a much earlier stage, allowing for timely intervention.
Real-Time treatment monitoring
By tracking chromosomal junctions in cfDNA, clinicians can assess how well a patient is responding to a particular treatment regimen in real-time. This can inform decisions about continuing, adjusting, or discontinuing therapy based on molecular evidence. Minimally Invasive: Different tissue biopsies, which can be invasive and pose risks to patients, cfDNA monitoring only requires a blood sample. This reduces patient discomfort and allows for more frequent monitoring.
Personalized approach the use of chromosomal junctions provides a highly individualized monitoring strategy, as the markers are specific to each patient’s tumours. This enhances the precision and relevance of the monitoring process.
Monitoring tumour heterogeneity can be heterogeneous, with different regions harboring distinct genetic mutations cfDNA captures a more comprehensive picture of the tumor’s genetic landscape, as it reflects DNA shed from various parts of the tumor.
Individualized cfDNA monitoring using chromosomal junctions represents a potential advancement in the management of mesothelioma. By providing a non-invasive, real-time, and personalized method for tracking disease progression and treatment response, this approach has the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes. Ongoing research and technological advancements are likely to further enhance the feasibility and effectiveness of this strategy, making it an integral part of personalized cancer care in the future. As continue to unravel the complexities of tumour biology and refine our molecular diagnostic tools, individualized cfDNA monitoring stands at the forefront of a new era in cancer management.
Citation: Mange R (2024 Enhancing Treatment Outcomes in Mesothelioma and cfDNA Chromosomal Junctions. J Pharmacogenom Pharmacoproteomics. 15:098.
Copyright: © 2024 Mange R. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.