Extrachromosomal Circular DNA as a Cancer Biomarker: From Diagnosis to Treatment

Abstract

Extrachromosomal circular DNA (eccDNA) is an emerging class of genetic material that exists outside of the chromosomal genome. These circular DNA molecules are gaining increasing attention as important biomarkers in various cancers because of their roles in gene amplification, genetic heterogeneity, and drug resistance. In this review, we explore in depth the impacts of eccDNAs on cancer biology, their potential to predict treatment sensitivity and resistance, and their involvement in the development of new anticancer therapies. eccDNAs can be used as biomarkers for various tumor types to help diagnose and predict prognosis.