Liquid biopsies are an attractive, minimally invasive method for the detection, evaluation, and monitoring of cancer development and progression. Innovative technologies and strategies exist for profiling samples of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and DNA from circulating tumor cells (ctDNA). However, technical challenges persist in assay sensitivity and specificity. To explore and illuminate the application of digital PCR for the detection and quantification of biomarkers from liquid biopsies, The Scientist brings together a panel of experts to discuss strategies for detecting and quantitatively analyzing mutations in cfDNA and ctDNA and the application of this information to profile disease progression and treatment. Attendees will have an opportunity to interact with the experts, ask questions, and seek advice on topics that are related to their research.
Topics to be covered:
- Tailoring cancer treatment based on ctDNA mutation tracking
- Cerebrospinal fluid as an “alternative liquid biopsy” for detecting cfDNA from CNS tumors
Meet the Speakers:
Isaac Garcia-Murillas, PhD
Senior Scientific Officer
Molecular Oncology Team
Institute of Cancer Research, UK
Wenying Pan, PhD
Post-doctoral Researcher
Department of Bioengineering
Stanford University