Scientists have developed a new blood analysis method capable of detecting tumor DNA even when it makes up no more than 5% of the total DNA in the sample.
Scientists noted that liquid biopsy or blood analysis is currently one of the most promising methods for diagnosing and monitoring cancer, but the amount of tumor DNA in the blood drops sharply after successful treatment, making it difficult to follow up with the patient. The new blood analysis method they developed, called BayesCNA, is capable of detecting faint tumor signals even in samples containing large amounts of healthy DNA.
The researchers explained that the new method of analysis is able to detect tumor DNA even when it constitutes no more than 5% of the total DNA in the sample, which is a significant improvement compared to current methods that usually require a percentage of at least 15 to 20%.
The technique relies on analyzing low-coverage genome sequencing data, a method that provides a general picture of DNA structure. Researchers have developed a statistical algorithm to extract previously unnoticed information from this data. According to the creators of this method, this new approach will help in obtaining a more detailed view of tumor formation and tracking its changes during treatment.
Scientists believe this technology could become an important tool in treating cancerous tumors, as it enables doctors to monitor the effectiveness of treatment more frequently and adjust it more quickly, by obtaining detailed information about the tumor from regular blood analysis.
