MOLECULAR BIOMARKERS OF HUMAN DISEASE: FUNDAMENTAL CONCEPTS, RESEARCH MODELS AND CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

Molecular biomarkers correspond to all endogenous or exogenous biomolecules, whose presence or alteration in metabolic pathways indicate the response of a biological system to a disturbance caused by internal or external factors. The search for biomarkers has allowed deepening the knowledge of complex pathophysiological mechanisms of diseases, interactions with potential drugs, and the improvement of diagnostic and therapeutic tests, establishing itself as a central point in personalized medicine. In addition, the development of the omics sciences has fostered an increasing exploration in this field of research. This review presents essential and relevant concepts in biomarker research, explores the various definitions and classifications of biomarkers according to their purpose, the critical aspects to be considered in experimental design, the primary employed study models (in vivo, in vitro, and in silico) and the factors that have hindered their ultimate implementation. Finally, important, and current clinical and pharmacological research areas in which biomarker research play a central role are presented.