How can biomarkers be used to monitor cancer or predict whether it will return?

In translational medicine, biomarkers are quantifiable biological parameters—such as proteins, genetic mutations, or mRNA alterations—that indicate a specific disease state or response to therapy.1

Monitoring and Recurrence

Biomarkers, including substances secreted by tumors into the blood or other body fluids, are essential for tracking disease progression. A rising level of a specific tumor marker in the blood generally signals that a tumor is regrowing. Furthermore, sensitive molecular techniques like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) allow clinicians to detect residual malignant cells at very low levels, serving as a critical indicator of whether a treatment has succeeded or if the cancer has returned.12

Prognostic Value

Beyond monitoring, biomarkers help predict the aggressiveness of a cancer. For instance, measuring the proportion of actively growing cells within a tumor provides prognostic insight, as higher rates of cell division often correlate with more aggressive disease. By identifying these molecular signatures, physicians can better forecast the evolution of a tumor and determine the most effective therapeutic interventions.2