Abstract

The improving ability to extract and identify rare tumour cells and DNA makes it possible to develop new approaches to biomarker research. Possible applications span a range of uses in clinical diagnostics as well as new noninvasive tools for cancer genomics research. Recent reports demonstrated proofs of concept that have used CTCs and ctDNA to aid in cancer detection and prognostication, to suggest therapy and monitor response, to dissect mechanisms of resistance and to explore tumour heterogeneity. This session will present and discuss recent advances and topical challenges in the field.