Cell Free DNA and Genometastasis

Abstract

Cell free DNAs (cfDNA) are short DNA fragments which are present in all biological fluids and cell culture medium. They were first detected in blood plasma by Mandel and Metais in 1948. cfDNAs are mostly endogenous-derived fragments that are determined in lipid/protein rich complexes or particles with membranes. In healthy individuals, there are small amounts of mono-nucleosome forms of cfDNA in the peripheral circulation. cfDNA can bind to proteins and phospholipids on cell surfaces. This mechanism may related to absorbance and release of cfDNA. Different enzymes such as deoxyribonuclease (DNase) may facilitate the unbounding and recirculation of membrane bound cfDNAs.

The role of Extracellular Genomic Materials (EGMs) in psychiatric disorders

“…A recognizable example would be from tumor cells that might release EGMs with a mutation [ 10 ] or oncogenes [ 33 ]. When these EGMs target healthy cells, they can impact their physiology and trigger pathophysiological processes, potentially leading to the development of diseases [ 7 , 34 – 36 ]. Since, they can be easily detected from the periphery and have specific biosignatures of the cell of origin, EGMs hold great potential as noninvasive biomarkers for screening, diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders and might provide a window into the brain cells and their microenvironment.…”

“…[ 5 , 6 ]. The term “EGMs” has been first used by our research group recently to cover various types of freely circulating cell-free genomic materials [ 7 ]. In recent years, it has been revealed that EGMs deliver essential information in various pathologies including cancer, and provide valuable advancements in terms of diagnostic, prognostic and theranostic approaches.…”