Abstract A015: Validation of a cancer early-detection assay on liquid biopsies using DNA methylation

Abstract There is growing awareness of the benefits of early cancer detection. Early intervention can improve patient outcomes, leading to a reduction in the health care burden associated with cancer, and can also provide critical information for personalized treatments. Liquid biopsies enable quick, easy, non-invasive, and real-time testing that is suitable for screening and increases accessibility, particularly in developing countries. The use of epigenomic techniques, such as DNA methylation profiling, enhances the depth and breadth of screening beyond what standard genetic analysis can offer. Universal Diagnostics (UDx), a respected pioneer in the field of early cancer detection, has partnered with Hologic Diagenode, which brings 20 years of experience in epigenomics, to develop a customized early detection workflow for colorectal cancer (CRC). This analysis relies on DNA methylation biomarkers identified within cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from plasma. The UDx assay provides not only easy screening but also a more comprehensive analysis than that possible with conventional markers. Genome-wide methylation profiles from healthy individuals and cancer patients were used to identify biomarkers. These biomarker candidates were then validated for performance; the results of which are presented in this poster. Citation Format: Ekaterina Gracheva. Validation of a cancer early-detection assay on liquid biopsies using DNA methylation [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Liquid Biopsy: From Discovery to Clinical Implementation; 2024 Nov 13-16; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2024;30(21_Suppl):Abstract nr A015.