subject: Use Of Biomarkers Becoming More Widespread [print this page] Over recent months and years there has been an increase in media coverage relating to biomarkers and the role they are playing in the world of medical research. Stories appear in the press on a weekly basis, and often relate to the discovery of a new biomarker and how it may be able to play a role in the early detection of a human disease.
Biomarkers are being used across all areas of research and they are having an increasingly significant impact. Cancer biomarkers for example have the ability to push forward the boundaries of research and help create breakthroughs when it comes to diagnosing a patient who is at risk of developing the disease. When they have been made suitable for the clinical environment, doctors can use biomarkers to test patients susceptibility to certain diseases and take appropriate action at the earliest possible stage.
Biomarkers also help to simplify tests which can mean much less stress for patients at a time when they already have quite enough to deal with. This can have an enormously positive impact on treatment and the persons state of mind. Researchers in the UK have been working to develop a non-invasive test for oral cancer. The idea is to create a way of testing that causes as little distress to the patient as possible. As well as being a pain-free, the process of using a swab to remove cells from the inside of a persons mouth is not nearly as upsetting as other invasive tests. The idea is also to cut down on the time it takes for results to be returned, again reducing the stress for people potentially suffering from oral cancer.
There are many people who will benefit from scientists and doctors having a greater knowledge of biomarkers and it is hoped they will play an increasingly important role in the field of medical research. Many companies from small laboratories to large multi-national firms have adopted a positive approach to biomarkers and are using them as an integral part of their research processes. These companies have a strong belief in the positive impact that biomarkers can have and are leading the way when it comes to biomarker research. Experts do agree however, that more data is needed if biomarkers are to reach their full potential.
