Liquid biopsy approach in the management of prostate cancer

摘要

Liquid biopsies examine tumor cells or tumor genomic content in circulating fluids. In advanced prostate cancer which metastasizes frequently to the bone, it is difficult to evaluate underlying and evolving genomic heterogeneity of skeletal metastases for effecting clinical care for which reason liquid biopsies offer an alternate approach. In this review, we will summarize the current state of a wide variety of liquid biopsy-based biomarker assays currently being investigated and developed for managing prostate cancer. We will also highlight technical and clinical challenges and opportunities for translating liquid biopsies into clinical applications.