Donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA)

Donor-derived cell-free DNA is fragmented DNA released from the cells of a transplanted organ and detected in the body fluids of the recipient, most commonly by droplet digital PCR, quantitative PCR, or next-generation sequencing. In transplant recipients, dd-cfDNA increases with cell death from rejection or other injury mechanisms and serves as a non-invasive quantitative biomarker (“liquid biopsy”) to monitor graft health, detect allograft injury early, and inform on the need for biopsy or changes in immunosuppression[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9]. Its specificity for rejection is limited, as it may be elevated due to other forms of graft damage, but it is increasingly used in clinical practice due to its rapid clearance and real-time reflection of graft status.

Other names

dd-cfDNAdonor-derived cfDNAdonor cell-free DNAgraft-derived cell-free DNA