Using SHOX2 and PTGER4 Gene Methylation to Monitor Minimal Residual Disease and Predict Recurrence in Post-Surgery Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate the use of combined plasma SHOX2 and PTGER4 gene methylation analysis as a biomarker to monitor minimal residual disease MRD and predict recurrence in patients with non-small cell lung cancer NSCLC after surgery. It focuses on whether regular methylation assessments can help guide personalized treatment decisions by identifying high-risk patients, potentially reducing overtreatment or undertreatment. The study enrolls stage I-IV NSCLC patients who undergo surgical tumor removal. Patients receive standard surgical treatment for NSCLC. Peripheral blood samples are collected at multiple timepoints before surgery, 3 days after, and at 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 months post-surgery, as well as if cancer recurrence occurs. These samples are tested for circulating tumor DNA ctDNA methylation of SHOX2 and PTGER4 genes to track changes over time. This observational study does not administer additional treatments but closely monitors methylation markers and tumor markers. Participants provide blood samples and clinical data over about two years. Researchers analyze relationships between methylation levels and imaging results, recurrence risk, and survival outcomes. They use statistical methods to classify patients by risk and assess the predictive value of methylation markers for disease-free survival and overall survival. The study aims to establish if ctDNA methylation testing can become a standard tool for managing postoperative NSCLC by detecting MRD and guiding treatment decisions.

Application of Methylation Markers in Early Detection and MRD Monitoring of Lung Cancer