Liquid biopsy and cfNAs: driving forward diagnostics and disease research

The key diagnostic and prognostic information locked away in cell-free nucleic acids (cfNAs) has become increasingly accessible due to developments in genetic and epigenetic profiling techniques. These advances have engendered the rise of liquid biopsy techniques, which capture and analyze cfNAs from samples such as blood, saliva, urine and feces, in diagnostics and basic disease research.

However, challenges remain in the detection and analysis of these nucleic acid fragments, in part due to their low abundance and fragile nature. In this episode, Ayla Maunighan-Peter, Epigenetics Product Specialist at Zymo research (CA, USA), details the utility of these molecules, the challenges associated with their development and implementation of liquid biopsies and their use in both basic research and diagnostic spaces.

For an insight into how cfNAs can be used to identify novel drug targets, impact diagnostics development and be used to help soothe the organ shortage crisis, listen today!

Contents:

Intro: 00:00-00:40What are cfNAs? 1:50-02:35The role of cfNAs in Liquid biopsy: 02:35-04:25Markers analyzed in cfNAs: 04:25-06:10Epigenetic analysis of cfNAs: 06:05-07:55Techniques for epigenetic analysis of cfNAs: 08:00-08:55Introducing fragmentomics: 08:55-11:05Challenges in the development of liquid biopsy: 11:05-14:40How is the field trying to adapt to these challenges? 14:40-16:10Applications of cfNAs in basic research: 16:10-17:30The most exciting findings concerning the role of cfNAs in disease: 17:30-20:05One thing to improve our understanding and use of cfNAs: 20:05-21:10Conclusions: 21:15-22:15 

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