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Biomarkers - what does it mean exactly?

The in-depth explanation could be found the recently published review (R.M. Califf, Biomarker definition and thier applications, Exp. Biol. Med. 243 (2018) 213-221); below the abstract from this paper.

Biomarkers are critical to the rational development of medical therapeutics, but significant confusion persists regarding fundamental definitions and concepts involved in their use in research and clinical practice, particularly in the fields of chronic disease and nutrition. Clarification of the definitions of different biomarkers and a better understanding of their appropriate application could result in substantial benefits. This review examines biomarker definitions recently established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the National Institutes of Health as part of their joint Biomarkers, EndpointS, and other Tools (BEST) resource. These definitions are placed in context of their respective uses in patient care, clinical research, or therapeutic development. We explore the distinctions between biomarkers and clinical outcome assessments and discuss the specific definitions and applications of diagnostic, monitoring, pharmacodynamic/response, predictive, prognostic, safety, and susceptibility/risk biomarkers. We also explore the implications of current biomarker development trends, including complex composite biomarkers and digital biomarkers derived from sensors and mobile technologies. Finally, we discuss the challenges and potential benefits of biomarker-driven predictive toxicology and systems pharmacology, the need to ensure quality and reproducibility of the science underlying biomarker development, and the importance of fostering collaboration across the entire ecosystem of medical product development.

 

What is Breath Biopsy™?

The Breath Biopsy™ concept was recently presented by Dr. Julian Renpenning (here). Briefly:

Exhaled breath is more than just air; it contains over 1,000 volatile organic compounds (VOC) as well as microscopic aerosol particles, also known as respiratory droplets, originating from the lungs and airways. Both VOCs and breath aerosol represent rich sources of biological information. Conclusively, Breath Biopsy provides an entirely new way to access this information by collecting and analyzing breath samples. This makes it possible to: 

  • Investigate biomarkers for disease early detection
  • Stratify patients by phenotype for precision medicine
  • Detect and monitor response to treatments
  • Measure exposure to hazardous substances and their impact on the body

Unlike liquid and tissue biopsies, which require blood or tissue samples to be taken, Breath Biopsy provides a completely non-invasive solution that maximizes patient comfort.

More information could be found here.

Biomarkers Analysis LAB - our mission

The Biomarkers Analysis LAB at the Institute of Electronics AGH is focused on the fundamental research on technical developments for non-invasive biomarkers detection including bio-sensing and gas-sensing techniques, with special emphasis on exhaled breath analysis. 

Our mission is to conduct the research and development of biomarkers detection, that allows clinicians to perform screening tests and detecting various diseases, especially civilization diseases such as diabetes, cancers, and many other metabolic disorders.