What Types of Biological Samples are Commonly Used?
In cancer research and clinical diagnostics, a variety of biological samples are used. These include:
- Blood: Often used for liquid biopsies to detect circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and cell-free DNA (cfDNA). - Tissue Biopsies: Obtained through surgical procedures, biopsies provide histological and molecular insights into the tumor. - Body Fluids: Such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), pleural effusion, and urine, can also be analyzed for cancer biomarkers.
