They included i) identification of cells expressing Cthrc1 in cancers and normal tissues, ii) determination of circulating levels of Cthrc1 and identify conditions associated with altered Cthrc1 levels, iii) characterization of Cthrc1 plasma levels as a potential biomarker, and iv) identification of cell types contributing to circulating levels of Cthrc1. The gene discussed is CTHRC1; the disease is cancer.