cfDNA and Extracellular Vesicle Biomarker Analysis

This study aims to explore whether a simple blood test can be used to help detect and monitor cervical cancer. We are studying tiny fragments and particles found in blood, called cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and extracellular vesicles (EVs), to see if they can act as early warning signs (biomarkers) of cervical cancer. Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) refers to tiny fragments of genetic material (DNA) that are naturally released from cells into the bloodstream when cells die or renew themselves. Everyone has cfDNA circulating in their blood. In people with cancer, some of this DNA comes from cancer cells, this part is called circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA). By analysing cfDNA, researchers can detect signs of cancer, such as specific genetic changes or pieces of viral DNA (like HPV), without needing to remove tissue from the cervix. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are very small "packages" that cells release into the blood and other body fluids. They carry messages between cells and contain important information such as proteins, fats, and genetic material (like RNA). In cancer, tumour cells release EVs that reflect the cancer's behaviour and activity. Studying EVs can help researchers understand how a cancer is growing or responding to treatment. Together, cfDNA and EVs act like tiny messengers or "fingerprints" of what is happening inside the body. By studying these in blood samples, researchers hope to develop a simple, less invasive, more comfortable, and more accessible way to detect and monitor cervical cancer compared with current screening and diagnostic methods. A blood test could also help doctors track how a cancer is responding to treatment or detect early signs of recurrence, without needing a surgical biopsy. The expected outcomes of this study are to identify specific patterns or "signatures" in extracellular vesicles (EVs) and cell-free DNA (cfDNA) found in blood samples. These signatures could help to: * Detect cervical cancer earlier, before symptoms appear or the disease progresses * Monitor how well treatment is working in real time, without the need for invasive tests * Predict if the cancer might return or spread after treatment * Support more personalised care, helping doctors choose the most suitable treatment for each patient