Plasma Cell-free DNA Levels in Children With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Plasma levels of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) are elevated in various clinical conditions, including cancer, myocardial infarction, autoimmune disease, and pregnancy-associated complications. The aim of this study was to determine the level of cfDNA to assess the potential of cfDNA as a biomarker for screening and diagnosis and also its effectiveness in the treatment of patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Overall, 40 individuals (20 healthy volunteers and 20 patients with ALL) were examined. For quantitative analysis of cfDNA, plasma purified DNA was subjected to real-time PCR amplification of the beta-globin gene. Quantification of cfDNA levels was performed at the time of diagnosis and after treatment with a common protocol.

At diagnosis, in all samples, plasma levels of cfDNA were significantly elevated compared to those of healthy controls after treatment. The high levels of cfDNA decreased and returned to normal after treatment.

Data showed that despite the significant cfDNA concentration increment in patients than the control group, its detection and treatment potential should be more studied: however, it still can be a useful marker for screening of diseases, such as hematological neoplasms.