Diagnostic Biomarkers for Cancer

July 29, 2014

 

Our ability to clinically diagnose breast cancer is largely provided for by modern medical imaging and related diagnostic technologies. Medical imaging has become advanced enough that it is sometimes possible to accurately diagnose breast cancers using only diagnostic imaging, without using any invasive procedures.

Although effective, medical imaging does have drawbacks. Imaging can be expensive, time-consuming, and sometimes painful. Imaging without biopsy can also lead to a false-positive or false-negative result, which could lead to more unnecessary procedures1. It is because of these drawbacks to imaging that more research has been dedicated to discovering accurate diagnostic biomarkers for breast cancer.

A biomarker is any biological material found in the body that can be used as an indicator for the presence of some disease2. Researchers have discovered biomarkers and use them to diagnose diseases like prostate cancer using only a urine sample2. Similar tests have been sought after for many other types of diseases, and it is likely that in the near future we may see the discovery of many other diagnostic biomarkers2.

The new advances in bioinformatics and new understanding of the human genome have contributed to the discovery of new biomarkers. In fact, a research group recently discovered a biomarker for breast cancer that can be detected through blood plasma. Briefly discussed in a previous blog post, this finding could lead to the development of a blood test that could accurately diagnose breast cancer. The test works by analyzing the protein patterns found in the patient’s blood, and uses certain patterns as an indication of the presence of breast cancer3. Although not completely accurate, the test was able to diagnose breast cancer with high enough specificity that it is a comparable diagnostic test to many already existing imaging technologies3.

The up-and-coming research on diagnostic biomarkers for cancer have contributed greatly to the accuracy and efficiency of modern diagnostics. It is likely that in the nearby future we will see the development of many new diagnostic tests that will allow us to identify cancer earlier, and increase the chance of survival.

References

  1. Nelson, Heidi D., et al. “Screening for breast cancer: an update for the US Preventive Services Task Force.” Annals of internal medicine 151.10 (2009): 727-737.
  2. Kulasingam, Vathany, and Eleftherios P. Diamandis. “Strategies for discovering novel cancer biomarkers through utilization of emerging technologies.” Nature clinical practice Oncology 5.10 (2008): 588-599.
  3. Chung, Liping, et al. “Novel serum protein biomarker panel revealed by mass spectrometry and its prognostic value in breast cancer.” Breast Cancer Research 16.3 (2014): R63.

 

About UBCF

UBCF is committed to offering breast health and wellness services focused on cancer prevention, screening, treatment and overall wellness. UBCF’s mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer and carries it out through seven life-supporting patient and family programs available to women, men and families nationwide. UBCF never denies services to anyone regardless of age, race, gender, ethnicity, income or medical insurance coverage. Tax-deductible contributions may be made towards UBCF’s programs. UBCF accepts vehicle and property donations as well. Combined Federal Campaign #77934

Join Our Cause

Want to be a part of the amazing work we do? Whether you want to volunteer, fundraise, participate in events, or more, there are always ways to get involved in our mission. View our upcoming events, partnership opportunities, donation options, and more on our Get Involved page!

Host an Event

Interested in hosting an event on behalf of UBCF? We're always looking for volunteers to host a Pink Bag Event®, Tempur-Pedic® Mattress Event, or another kind of fundraising or community event. Fill out and submit our "Host an Event" form to learn more!

HOST AN EVENT