BIOMARKERS - SCI &
TECH
News: Detecting cancer in minutes
possible with just a drop of dried blood and new test, study hints
What's in the news?
●
The screening for blood biomarkers has been
suggested as a promising approach to detect cancer in its early stages.
Biomarkers:
●
It is also known as Biological Markers, are identifiable physical, chemical, or
biological characteristics present in the human body that are measurable.
●
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines
biomarkers as measurements reflecting
interactions between biological systems and potential hazards, which can be
chemical, physical, or biological in nature.
Features:
●
It is also referred to as molecular markers and
signature molecules, biomarkers play a crucial role in disease diagnosis, medication prescription, dosage determination, and
drug development.
●
Biomarkers encompass various biomolecules such as
carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, genes, DNA, RNA, platelets, enzymes, and
hormones.
Classification of
Biomarkers:
Based on their source or location, biomarkers can be categorized as
follows.
1. Molecular Biomarkers;
●
It is measurable in biological samples like blood
plasma, serum, cerebrospinal fluid, and biopsy specimens.
2. Radiographic
Biomarkers:
●
It is obtained from imaging studies such as bone
mineral density assessments.
3. Histologic
Biomarkers:
●
It is reflecting biochemical or molecular
alterations in cells, tissues, or fluids, used in cancer staging and grading.
4. Physiologic
Biomarkers:
●
It represents measures of body processes like blood
pressure, pulse rate, and heart rate.
Based on their roles/functions, biomarkers can be classified as follows.
1. Susceptibility/Risk
Biomarkers:
●
It indicates the likelihood of developing a disease
or condition.
2. Diagnostic
Biomarkers:
●
It is used for disease detection or confirmation.
3. Prognostic
Biomarkers:
●
It predicts disease progression or relapse in confirmed
cases.
4. Monitoring
Biomarkers:
●
It assesses disease stage, drug exposure, or
environmental agent exposure.
5. Predictive
Biomarkers:
●
It identifies individuals with a higher likelihood
of strong outcomes when exposed to specific drugs, aiding treatment decisions.