Authors : Vikash Chandra Mishra, Dinesh Chandra, Vimarsh Raina
DOI : 10.4103/ijot.ijot_23_25
Volume : 19
Issue : 3
Year : 2025
Page No : 304-309
Donor-derived cell-free deoxyribonucleic acid (dd-cfDNA) is a promising noninvasive biomarker for monitoring organ transplant rejection and graft status as it is released into the recipient’s bloodstream due to graft injury, ischemia, or immune response. Various detection methodologies allow precise quantification, including polymerase chain reaction-based techniques, next-generation sequencing, and methylation-based assays. Despite its utility and potential, challenges remain a factor such as distinguishing dd-cfDNA from recipient cell-free DNA and standardization of methods. Clinically, dd-cfDNA enhances early graft rejection detection and subsequently guides immunosuppressive therapy. In addition, dd-cfDNA reduces the dependence on biopsies. Further, advancements in sequencing and bioinformatics refine its role in monitoring organ transplant rejection and graft status.