Biomarkers in cancer are substances or processes measurable in the body that provide crucial information about the cancer’s presence, type, or progression. They are essential for diagnosing and managing cancer. Here are some key points about cancer biomarkers:
Types of Biomarkers:
- Diagnostic Biomarkers: Help detect cancer in the body before symptoms appear.
- Prognostic Biomarkers: Offer information about a patient’s overall outcome, regardless of treatment.
- Predictive Biomarkers: Indicate the likely benefit of a therapeutic intervention, assisting in treatment selection.
Sources and Detection:
- Biomarkers can be found in blood, tissue, urine, or other body fluids.
- They are commonly measured through blood tests, biopsies, or imaging techniques.
Examples:
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA): Used for diagnosing and monitoring prostate cancer.
- HER2/neu protein: Indicates a specific type of breast cancer and predicts response to targeted therapy.
- BRAF V600E mutation: Found in various cancers, including melanoma, and indicates response to certain targeted therapies.
Roles and Benefits:
- Biomarkers enable early detection and more precise treatment, improving survival rates.
- They assist in monitoring treatment response and detecting recurrence.
Research in this area continues to advance, aiming to develop new biomarkers for more personalized cancer care.