Circulating DNA: Diagnostic tool and predictive marker for overall survival of NSCLC patients

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of our study was to determine whether the amounts of circulating DNA (cDNA) could discriminate between NSCLC patients and healthy individuals and assess its value as a prognostic marker of this disease. Methods: We conducted a study of 309 individuals and the cDNA levels were assessed through real-time PCR methodology. Results: We found increased cDNA levels in NSCLC patients compared to control individuals. We also found a decreased overall survival time in patients presenting high cDNA levels, when compared to lower cDNA concentrations. Conclusions: Quantification of cDNA may be a good tool for NSCLC detection with potential for clinical applicability. © 2012 Catarino et al.