biomarker

American  

[bahy-oh-mahr-ker] / ˈbaɪ oʊˌmɑr kər /

noun

1. a distinct biochemical, genetic, or molecular characteristic or substance that is an indicator of a particular biological condition or process.

   a blood test to measure protein biomarkers for cancer.

---

biomarker British  

/ ˈbaɪəʊˌmɑːkə /

noun

1. another name for biological marker

---

Etymology

Origin of biomarker

First recorded in 1970–75; bio- ( def. ) + marker ( def. )

Example Sentences

Researchers suggest these molecules could serve as a biomarker to measure disease severity and track how well treatments are working.

From Science Daily

"This sort of measure has great potential to be a biomarker for the development of psychosis," Prof. Whitford says.

From Science Daily

The researchers also point to a specific molecule that could serve as a future biomarker for identifying cardiovascular risk.

From Science Daily

The findings suggest that microRNA-210 in red blood cells could be used as a biomarker to help detect the risk of cardiovascular complications at an earlier stage.

From Science Daily

Using a specially designed analysis tool, scientists at Brown University have identified a brain-based biomarker that may help predict whether mild cognitive impairment will progress into Alzheimer's disease.

From Science Daily