What is a biomarker?

Tumor biomarkers are substances that when present in abnormal or elevated levels can be indicative of cancer. Biomarkers exist in many forms including antibodies, peptides, proteins, peptides, and nucleic acids.  They can be found in tissues, blood, and other bodily fluids.

Tumor biomarkers are commonly used in diagnostics.  Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a glycoprotein, is present in high levels in fetuses, pregnant people, and patients with germ cell and liver tumors.  Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a marker for colorectal carcinoma.  CEA levels are expected to decline with successful cancer treatment so it is used to monitor patients’ responses to therapy. Cluster of differentiation (CD) markers are membrane proteins primarily found on the surface of leucocytes that can be used to diagnose and classify lymphomas.

Researchers are looking for new biomarkers to improve the accuracy and sensitivity of diagnostic tests. Tumor biomarkers are also used in cancer research to determine drug targets and to find surrogate endpoints in drug trials.

Tumor biomarker research requires a great diversity of life science products. We are dedicated to developing cutting edge research products to aid in the study of tumor biomarkers including monoclonal antibodies, polyclonal antibodies, antibody conjugates, and immunoassays.

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