Biomarker detection technologies and future directions

Analyst. 2016 Feb 7;141(3):740-55. doi: 10.1039/c5an01790d. Epub 2015 Nov 19.

Abstract

Biomarkers play a vital role in disease detection and treatment follow-up. It is important to note that diseases in the early stage are typically treated with the greatest probability of success. However, due to various technical difficulties in current technologies for the detection of biomarkers, the potential of biomarkers is not explored completely. Therefore, the developments of technologies, which can enable the accurate detection of prostate cancer at an early stage with simple, experimental protocols are highly inevitable. This critical review evaluates the current methods and technologies used in the detection of biomarkers. The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive review covering the advantages and disadvantages of the biomarker detection methods. Future directions for the development of technologies to achieve highly selective and sensitive detection of biomarkers for point-of-care applications are also commented on.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / analysis*
  • Electrochemical Techniques
  • Electrophoresis, Gel, Two-Dimensional
  • Flow Cytometry
  • Humans
  • Immunoassay
  • Male
  • Microarray Analysis
  • Prostate-Specific Antigen / analysis
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Quantum Dots / chemistry
  • Spectrum Analysis, Raman

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • Prostate-Specific Antigen