Search for cancer ‘biomarkers’

WASHINGTON - A Florida State University scientist is working to identify a variety of ‘biomarkers’ that might provide earlier warnings of the presence of breast and prostate cancers.

“Biomarkers are indicators of certain biological and pathological processes that are occurring, such as cancer,” said Qing-Xiang ‘Amy’ Sang, a professor in Florida State’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.

“Either the cancer cells themselves, or surrounding normal tissue for that matter, can produce specific proteins or exhibit other biological changes that provide a signal that something unusual is taking place. Different types of cancer produce different biomarkers, so the challenge is to identify the most effective one for each type of the disease,” said Sang.

“The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has recognized three separate biomarkers for the identification of breast cancer and one for prostate cancer.

“But if we can identify new and more accurate biomarkers that offer even earlier glimpses of these diseases, we stand a better chance of offering patients the most customized treatment possible, then, being able to closely monitor their progress, provide follow-up treatment as needed. With earlier diagnosis and treatment, the end result will hopefully be fewer people dying from these cancers,” added Sang.

The study was published in the journal Clinical and Experimental Metastasis. (ANI)