Neuron-specific differentially-methylated region in cell-free DNA

Neuron-specific differentially-methylated regions in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) are genomic loci exhibiting DNA methylation patterns characteristic of neurons, distinguishable from other cell types. When detected in plasma or biofluids, these epigenetic signatures indicate the presence of neuron-derived cfDNA, serving as noninvasive biomarkers (liquid biopsies) to monitor brain diseases or neurological conditions. The identification of these regions enables inference of neuronal injury, degeneration, or disease activity in disorders where direct access to brain tissue is challenging. These are not druggable targets or classical molecular entities, but rather epigenetic markers whitelisted for cell origin detection and disease monitoring. This entry does not represent a canonical therapeutic target (e.g., protein or receptor), but an epigenomic biomarker class. Use caution: "Neuron-specific differentially-methylated regions in cell-free DNA" is an analysis target/biomarker, not a molecular drug target.

Other names

Neuron-specific DMR in cfDNANeuron-specific differentially methylated region in cfDNANeuron-associated DMR (context dependent)

Not applicable—pharmacological agents do not target DMRs directly. Drugs targeting epigenetic modifiers (like DNA methyltransferase inhibitors) act globally, not with specificity for neuron-specific DMRs.