Optimization of certain parameters in extracellular DNA isolations

Extracellular DNA (ecDNA) refers to fragmented DNA molecules present in the bloodstream or other body fluids, known as cell- free DNA (cfDNA). While cfDNA levels can increase in various conditions, particularly in cancer, they can originate from both abnormal and normal cells. cfDNA consists of short DNA fragments released into the bloodstream as a result of programmed cell death (apoptosis) or necrosis. The free circulation of these short DNA fragments in body fluids makes them easily accessible for methods requiring cfDNA analysis. cfDNA has the potential to serve as a non-invasive biomarker for various medical applications. cfDNA isolations, roughly considered as liquid biopsies, are regarded as a powerful alternative to traditional tissue biopsies, which are challenging and risky. cfDNA analysis shows promise in detecting and monitoring various diseases, including cancer, as well as in chromosomal anomaly screening in prenatal testing. Therefore, improving isolation yields is of great importance. In this thesis, specific steps in cfDNA isolation were optimized, and the efficiency of the isolation was measured using spectrophotometric and fluorometric techniques, and automated electrophoresis system.