Circulating Tumor Cell

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are cells that have shed into the vasculature or lymphatics from a primary tumor and are carried around the body in the blood circulation. CTCs constitute seeds for the subsequent growth of additional tumors (metastases) in distant organs, a mechanism that is responsible for the vast majority of cancer-related deaths. The detection and analysis of CTCs can assist early patient prognoses and determine appropriate tailored treatments.

Cell Free DNA

cffDNA originates from placental trophoblasts. Fetal DNA is fragmented when placental microparticles are shed into the maternal blood circulation.

cffDNA fragments are approximately 200 base pairs (bp) in length. They are significantly smaller than maternal DNA fragments.The difference in size allows cffDNA to be distinguished from maternal DNA fragments.

Ultrasensitive Mutation Detection