This prospective study evaluates the use of free circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) as a molecular biomarker for monitoring minimal residual disease (MRD) in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) stages II through IV.
The objective of the project is to validate the ddPCR method for detecting specific KRAS gene mutations (G12 and G13) from patient blood samples. For patients with stage II and III CRC, plasma samples are collected at least 2 weeks after surgery prior to adjuvant therapy or follow-up, and subsequently at regular 3-month intervals for a duration of 2 years. For patients with clinical stage IV disease, blood samples are collected before resection or local treatment of metastatic disease, at least 2 weeks after the procedure, and thereafter at 3-month intervals for 2 years. The primary intent is the early detection of recurrence and improved patient risk stratification.
