Droplet digital pcr as a novel diagnostic tool

Abstract

Summary Background: Nowadays, modern treatment methods for cancer patients are based on targeting specific molecules involved in cellular signaling system associated with tumor initiation and progression. The success of such approach depends on a correctly chosen diagnostic test with high sensitivity that identifies the occurrence and level of biomarkers in patients to select those who will respond and benefit from the treatment. The development of new technologies and the upgrades of the known ones contribute to the innovations in molecular characterization of cancer, which allows the detection of patient’s mutational status with high sensitivity and specificity. Purpose: Here, we discuss the utilization of the third-generation type of polymerase chain reaction (PCR), droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), in the molecular diagnostics of oncology diseases. According to the studies reported in our review, ddPCR represents a promising tool in genetic profiling of cancer patients. Therefore, the optimization and precise validation may enable gradual implementation of ddPCR into clinical practice in the field of oncology.