Fig. 3

Correlation statistics. a Tissue DNAs were tested by NGS (ACS and TST panels) and dPCR. VAF values were calculated within the 9-gene NGS panel overlap, and then paired two by two in the three regression plots, as indicated. Additional plots were generated by pairing VAF values from (b) ctDNAs (NGS vs dPCR), and (c) tDNA/ctDNA (dPCR vs dPCR) from individual patients. ctDNA levels assessed by dPCR were correlated with (d) pathological tumor staging and (e) tumor size (major diameter). In (e), the best fit is defined by a polynomial curve, and the area in the low copy number range is expanded to enhance resolution of low tumor sizes. Regression coefficients and significance (Student’s T-test) are shown. Abbreviations: ns, non-significant