Liquid biopsies for colorectal cancer: a narrative review of ongoing clinical trials and the current use of this technology at a comprehensive cancer center

• Published in: Journal of gastrointestinal oncology 2022-02, Vol.13 (1), p.438-449
• Main Authors: Broccard, Sacha P, Kasbi, Ali Abbaszadeh, Bagaria, Sanjay P, Jones, Jeremy, Shoudry, Mira, Gabriel, Emmanuel M
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Review
• ISSN: 2078-6891; 2219-679X
• DOI: 10.21037/jgo-21-470

In this review, we summarize ongoing clinical trials involving liquid biopsies (LB) for colorectal cancer (CRC), outlining the current landscape and the future implementation of this technology. We also describe the current use of LB in CRC treatment at our institution, the Mayo Clinic Enterprise. The use of LB in CRC treatment merits close attention. Their role is being evaluated in the screening, non-intervention, intervention, and surveillance settings through many active trials. This, coupled with the technique's rapid integration into clinical practice, creates constant evolution of care. Review of ClinicalTrials.gov was performed identifying relevant and active trials involving LB for CRC. "Colorectal cancer" plus other terms including "liquid biopsies" and "ctDNA" were used as search terms, identifying 35 active trials. LB use for the CRC is actively being investigated and requires close attention. Based on current evidence, Mayo Clinic Enterprise currently uses LB in the non-interventional, interventional and surveillance setting, but not for screening. Results of these trials may further establish the use of LB in the management of CRC.