Module 12

_{This module provides students with a comprehensive overview of the concept and techniques used in liquid biopsy. It begins with a general introduction to the concept of liquid biopsy and its relevance in the field of molecular pathology. It covers the different types of samples that can be used for liquid biopsy, such as blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid, and their advantages and disadvantages.The preanalytical phase is a crucial step in liquid biopsy, and the module dedicates a section to discuss the methods used in sample collection, processing, and storage to ensure high-quality results.}

_{The module then delves into the two primary components of liquid biopsy: circulating-free DNA (cfDNA) and circulating tumour cells (CTCs). The students learn about the origin, detection methods, and clinical significance of cfDNA and CTCs. They also explore other circulating components like vesicles and non-coding RNA and their potential roles in liquid biopsy.}

_{The module further explores the application of liquid biopsy in basic, translational, and clinical research. It also covers the practical aspects of liquid biopsy in daily clinical practice.}

By the end of this module, the learners should be able to:

• Explain the concept of liquid biopsies and their relevance in the field of molecular pathology.
• Identify the different types of liquid biopsies used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
• Describe the pre-analytical phase of liquid biopsy sample collection, including specimen handling, processing, and storage.
• Evaluate the quality of liquid biopsy samples.
• Explain the origin and detection methods of cfDNA and CTCs.
• Describe the clinical applications of cfDNA and CTCs in diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of cancer.
• Describe the different types of circulating components (e.g., vesicles, non-coding RNA) and their role in liquid biopsy analysis.
• Evaluate the potential clinical applications of these components in molecular pathology.
• Explain the use of liquid biopsy in basic, translational and clinical research, including biomarker discovery and validation.
• Evaluate the advantages and limitations of liquid biopsy compared to traditional tissue biopsies in research.
• Explain the practical applications of liquid biopsy in clinical practice, including diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment response monitoring of cancer.
• Evaluate the challenges and opportunities of incorporating liquid biopsy into routine clinical practice.
• Describe the use of liquid biopsy in other body fluids (e.g., urine, cerebrospinal fluid, saliva) and to evaluate their potential clinical applications.