Biomarkers in Medicine
Biomarkers in Medicine
Biomarkers in Medicine (pronunciation: /ˈbaɪoʊˌmɑːrkər/ in Medicine) are measurable indicators of some biological state or condition. The term is often used to refer to a substance the presence of which indicates the occurrence of a living organism.
Etymology
The term "biomarker" is a portmanteau of "biological marker". The term "biological marker" was introduced in 1950s. The abbreviated term "biomarker" was coined in 1980s.
Definition
A biomarker is a characteristic that is objectively measured and evaluated as an indicator of normal biological processes, pathogenic processes, or pharmacologic responses to a therapeutic intervention. Biomarkers are used in many scientific fields.
Types of Biomarkers
Biomarkers can be classified into different types based on different criteria. Some of the types include:
- Diagnostic Biomarkers: These are used to identify a disease or condition.
- Prognostic Biomarkers: These are used to identify the likely course of a disease in an individual.
- Predictive Biomarkers: These are used to identify individuals who are likely to respond to a particular treatment.
- Pharmacodynamic Biomarkers: These are used to understand the response of the body to a drug treatment.
Role in Medicine
In medicine, biomarkers are often used to assess the health status of individuals and to predict the risk of developing certain diseases. They are also used in the development of new drugs and therapies, and in the evaluation of the effectiveness of medical interventions.
Biomarkers can be specific cells, molecules, genes, gene products, enzymes, or hormones. Common examples include cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and body mass index.
Related Terms
- Biology: The study of living organisms.
- Medicine: The science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease.
- Disease: A particular abnormal condition that negatively affects the structure or function of all or part of an organism.
- Therapy: Treatment intended to relieve or heal a disorder.
- Pharmacology: The branch of medicine concerned with the uses, effects, and modes of action of drugs.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Biomarkers in Medicine
- Wikipedia's article - Biomarkers in Medicine
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