biomarker
A measurable indicator of the severity or presence of some disease state, or of some physiological state of an organism.
Refers to a biological molecule found in blood, other body fluids, or tissues that is a sign of a normal or abnormal process, or of a condition or disease. It's a 'marker' of 'life' or biological state.
Word relationships
- indicator: Indicator is a general term; biomarker is a specific biological indicator.
- marker: Marker is a general term; biomarker specifies a biological context.
Commonly confused with
- symptom: A symptom is a subjective experience reported by a patient; a biomarker is an objective, measurable biological sign.
Collocations
- cancer biomarker
- disease biomarker
- prognostic biomarker
- diagnostic biomarker
- biomarker discovery
Example sentences
- "Scientists are searching for new biomarkers that can detect cancer at its earliest stages." Discussing disease detection.
- "Elevated levels of certain proteins serve as a reliable biomarker for inflammation." Referring to medical tests.
- "The study identified a novel biomarker for Alzheimer's disease, offering hope for earlier diagnosis." From a research article.
Memory hook
BIO-marker is a biological MARKER of health or disease. Life-Sign
When not to use
Do not use 'biomarker' for general indicators that aren't biological or measurable in a biological context (e.g., 'a market trend is a biomarker of economic health' is incorrect).
Fun facts
- One of the most well-known biomarkers is blood glucose, used to monitor and diagnose diabetes.
- The search for new biomarkers is a major area of research in personalized medicine, aiming to tailor treatments based on an individual's unique biological profile.
Related words
Explore more words
pathogenesis, antigen, biopsy, physiology, susceptibility, homeostasis
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.