Advances and challenges in the application of donor-derived cell-free DNA for diagnosis and treatment in liver transplantation: a narrative review

In the field of liver disease treatment, liver transplantation (LT) has become an effective option for end-stage liver disease. However, issues such as immune rejection and graft damage remain important factors influencing the success rate of liver transplantation and patients' quality of life. In recent years, with the advancement of genetic testing technologies, the study and application of donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA) in LT diagnosis and treatment have gradually gained attention. This review explores the research advancements in dd-cfDNA within liver transplant management, evaluating its potential applications throughout the liver transplantation process, while exploring the challenges faced by current studies and outlining future research directions. As a strategic tool for postoperative monitoring in LT, dd-cfDNA shows promising potential in areas such as immune rejection, graft damage, immunosuppressant adjustment, complication monitoring, and personalized treatment, and is poised to become a reliable biomarker in LT management.