Extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) is now accepted as a major contributor to cancer pathogenesis. In this Review, Yan, Mischel and Chang highlight the recent advancements in ecDNA research, providing new insights into the biogenesis and maintenance of ecDNA, as well as its role in altering gene expression and promoting tumour heterogeneity.
- Xiaowei Yan
- Paul Mischel
- Howard Chang