Liquid biopsy in prostate cancer: A novel dual biomarker analysis approach integrating circulating tumor cells and circulating tumor DNA data

Dual biomarker analysis in prostate cancer via liquid biopsy

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the potential of liquid biopsy as a diagnostic tool by integrating two key biomarkers, Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) and Circulating Tumor DNA (ctDNA), and to enhance the detection fidelity of prostate cancer. A dual biomarker analysis approach was employed to synergize the sensitivities of CTCs and ctDNA. Various genetic mutations of ctDNA and tissues were scrutinized, investigating their prevalence, co-existence, and mutual exclusivity. The findings uncovered a more intricate mutation landscape than previously anticipated, indicating a complex interplay between cellular and genetic aberrations in prostate cancer. Through harnessing the combined power of CTCs and ctDNA, our dual biomarker approach provides a more comprehensive understanding of prostate cancer genetics. This has the potential to revolutionize early detection and guide personalized therapeutic interventions.