The liquid biopsies: A new important step in cancer research

Abstract

The recent advances in molecular profiling, directed therapies and early detection of cancer have brought the traditional techniques of diagnosis to the edge of their capabilities. In this chapter, we will analyze the challenges of new discoveries in cellular signaling network have in the early diagnosis and prognosis of cancer, and in which way liquid biopsies components have the potential to provide new sources of information for prevention, early diagnosis and continuous monitoring of the disease. Following an overview on the concept of liquid biopsies and a brief description of its components and its utility as source of biomarkers, we will focus on exosomes in detail. In this chapter, we highlight what is known so far about their biogenesis, functions, regulation and their role in cancer disease. Moreover, we will analyze their potential as biomarkers in the diverse stages of cancer disease status, including the novel approaches of exosomes as targets for therapy and as vehicles for drug delivery.