Abstract 5587: Sample quality control of cell-free DNA

Sequencing of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) extracted from blood specimens or other body fluids is possible due to the establishment of low input library protocols for next-generation sequencing workflows. Accurate quantification of cfDNA samples is essential to determine suitable input amounts for cfDNA library preparation prior to sequencing. The main component of cfDNA samples is the mononucleosome with a size around 170 bp, sometimes with additional species representing nucleosome multimers. Further, cfDNA samples may contain larger DNA fragments dependent on the donor9s health status, preanalytical sample treatment, or extraction method. High molecular weight material can negatively influence library preparation and subsequently result in lower sequencing depth. Therefore, reliable quantification of cfDNA requires a method that separates DNA fragments by size, such as electrophoresis. This poster shows the use of a new cfDNA assay for the 2100 Bioanalyzer system as an add-on for the High Sensitivity DNA assay. The assay enables automated cfDNA quantification with pre-defined regions. Moreover, the results include sample purity as a score to qualify cfDNA samples according to their contamination level with high molecular weight material. The features of the assay are described with examples of typical sample patterns. Citation Format: Melissa H. Liu, Eva Graf. Sample quality control of cell-free DNA [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 5587.