Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) refers to cancer cell DNA fragments in the blood. It’s also referred to as a liquid biopsy. Dr. David Shulman has been working with a team of researchers to develop the technology for early detection (in relapse scenarios) in a variety of sarcomas by identifying ctDNA before a tumor takes root. Currently, sarcoma patients must rely on imaging to detect cancer only after it has become a solid mass. Having made great strides with osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma, this new project is aimed at extending the study to include two of the more neglected sarcomas, synovial sarcoma and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS). Successful development of ctDNA detection could be groundbreaking – improving the success and intensity of treatment for young people with sarcoma.
