Cell-free DNA’s Expanding Role in Breast Cancer Management
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Advancements in liquid biopsies offer new avenues for early detection and targeted treatments.
By Amelia Grant | NEW YORK – 2025/06/06 20:48:03
The utilization of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is rapidly changing how breast cancer is managed,particularly for individuals with hormone receptor-positive tumors. According to massimo Cristofanilli, MD, a medical oncologist at the Breast Center at Weill Cornell Medicine, NewYork-Presbyterian, cfDNA’s primary utility lies in pinpointing and tracking mutations that can be targeted with specific therapies.
Dr. cristofanilli notes that this includes mutations in genes such as PIK3CA, act, and Esr1, which already have approved drugs available. Mutations in FGFR2,frequently enough linked to treatment resistance,can also be identified,though they receive less attention. The field’s progress is underscored by numerous publications supporting the approval of these drugs alongside their corresponding diagnostic tools.
Research is also pushing the boundaries into earlier stages of the disease, with molecular residual disease (MRD) being a key focus. The expectation is that within the next few years, various methods will enable the detection of disease before it recurs, allowing for earlier intervention and possibly extending the time before the disease reappears.this reflects the current direction of liquid biopsy applications.
The ultimate aspiration for liquid biopsy is to use it for widespread cancer screening. While not yet approved for this purpose, similar technologies are being evaluated in high-risk individuals who may not benefit from, or be adequately served by, standard screening approaches. This includes women with dense breasts or those with a genetic predisposition, where even MRI might not be the most suitable option.
“We already have an approved blood test for colorectal cancer screening, and there’s hope that breast cancer will soon have a similar approved blood test for screening, particularly for early detection,” Cristofanilli said.
“We already have an approved blood test for colorectal cancer screening, and there’s hope that breast cancer will soon have a similar approved blood test for screening, particularly for early detection.”
Frequently Asked Questions About cfDNA and Breast Cancer
- What is the main advantage of using cfDNA in breast cancer management?
- The main advantage is the ability to identify and monitor targetable mutations without the need for invasive tissue biopsies,allowing for more personalized treatment strategies.
- How can cfDNA help in early breast cancer detection?
- cfDNA-based tests can detect molecular residual disease (MRD) before recurrence, enabling earlier intervention and potentially prolonging the time before the disease reappears.
- Are there any limitations to using cfDNA for breast cancer screening?
- while promising, cfDNA-based tests for widespread breast cancer screening are not yet approved and are currently being evaluated in high-risk individuals.
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