Circulating tumor DNA methylation patterns, tumor-derived protein biomarkers, and extracellular vesicle biomarker signatures

This entry represents a multi-modal set of circulating biomarkers used in liquid biopsy for the detection, characterization, and monitoring of cancer (Nature Reviews Clinical Oncology, 2021). Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) methylation patterns provide high-resolution data on gene silencing and tissue-of-origin, often used in multi-cancer early detection (MCED) assays (Science, 2020). Tumor-derived protein biomarkers are traditional clinical indicators (e.g., PSA, CEA) that reflect tumor burden or specific cellular activities (Journal of Clinical Oncology, 2019). Extracellular vesicles (EVs), such as exosomes, carry a cargo of proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids that mirror the physiological state of the secreting tumor cells and facilitate intercellular communication (Nature Reviews Cancer, 2017). Together, these signatures offer a comprehensive view of the tumor's molecular landscape from a minimally invasive blood sample. While they are critical for diagnosis and treatment monitoring, they do not function as therapeutic targets themselves.

Other names

Liquid biopsy biomarkersMulti-omic cancer signaturesCirculating biomarkersMulti-modal liquid biopsy analytes

Not applicable as these are diagnostic biomarkers rather than therapeutic targets.