Liquid Biopsy: Current Applications and Future Direction

<p>This comprehensive review examines the evolution and clinical potential of <strong>liquid biopsy</strong>, a non-invasive diagnostic method that analyzes biomarkers within bodily fluids. The text classifies primary biomarkers such as <strong>circulating tumor DNA</strong>, <strong>intact tumor cells</strong>, and <strong>extracellular vesicles</strong>, while detailing the high-sensitivity technologies like <strong>digital PCR</strong> and <strong>next-generation sequencing</strong> used to detect them. In oncology, the authors highlight how these tools facilitate <strong>early cancer screening</strong>, the prediction of therapeutic responses, and the real-time monitoring of <strong>minimal residual disease</strong> or drug resistance. The scope extends beyond cancer to include applications in <strong>reproductive medicine</strong>, <strong>organ transplantation</strong>, and <strong>neurological disorders</strong>. Finally, the researchers address current implementation hurdles, such as the need for <strong>standardized protocols</strong>, and identify <strong>artificial intelligence</strong> as a key driver for future clinical integration.</p>