Extrachromosomal circular DNA: a new potential role in cancer progression

Journal of Translational Medicine

Tianyi Wang¹  Jiahai Shi¹  Youlang Zhou²  Haijian Zhang² 

[1]Nantong Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Cardiothoracic Diseases, and Research Institution of Translational Medicine in Cardiothoracic Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, No. 20, Xisi Road, 226001, Nantong, Jiangsu, China

[2]Department of Thoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, No. 20, Xisi Road, 226001, Nantong, Jiangsu, China

[3]Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, No. 20, Xisi Road, 226001, Nantong, Jiangsu, China

关键词: Extrachromosomal circular DNA;    Molecular mechanisms;    Cancer progression;   

DOI  :  10.1186/s12967-021-02927-x

来源: Springer

【 摘 要 】

Extrachromosomal circular DNA (eccDNA) is considered a circular DNA molecule that exists widely in nature and is independent of conventional chromosomes. eccDNA can be divided into small polydispersed circular DNA (spcDNA), telomeric circles (t-circles), microDNA, and extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) according to its size and sequence. Multiple studies have shown that eccDNA is the product of genomic instability, has rich and important biological functions, and is involved in the occurrence of many diseases, including cancer. In this review, we focus on the discovery history, formation process, characteristics, and physiological functions of eccDNAs; the potential functions of various eccDNAs in human cancer; and the research methods employed to study eccDNA.

【 授权许可】

CC BY