Biomarkers are objectively measurable characteristics that serve as reflections of biological states or signs of specific conditions. The vast majority of biomarkers found in disease research are proteins, which are highly reflective of—and relevant to—pathophysiological status. Researchers have recently become interested in early disease detection, especially since the ability to identify signs of nascent pathogenesis offers tremendous advantages for combating many illnesses. Biomarkers involved in early disease detection are often found at lower concentrations than in symptomatic disease mechanisms. As such, greater assay sensitivity is required to locate and quantify them.
Download this ebook from Merck to learn about the importance of biomarkers and how ultrasensitive Single Molecule Counting (SMC™) technology drives disease-based biomarker research forward.
