Have you heard about research seeking to identify biomarkers for Parkinson’s disease? And have you participated as a volunteer in such research? I can answer “Yes!” to both questions, but must respond with a measly “No…” to a third: Do you actually know what a biomarker is?
Fortunately, the Michael J. Fox Foundation just published a three-page brochure that explains biomarkers and biomarker research to the laity. Apparently, biomarkers fall into two broad categories: progression biomarkers and diagnostic biomarkers.
I’ll quote directly:
A progression biomarker (or progression marker) is an objectively measurable characteristic that changes over time in a way that can be correlated to the progression of disease. This type of marker is a critically needed tool for clinical trials, particularly trials of potential disease-modifying treatments.
A diagnostic biomarker (or diagnostic or risk marker) is an objectively measurable physical characteristic associated with the presence of disease.
Thus, as I understand it, if researchers were able to clearly identify the second (diagnostic) type of biomarker, it would mean that if doctors found it in a patient, they could say, “Bingo! You’ve got Parkinson’s. Increase your aerobic workouts now!” This would be an improvement over current diagnostic methods, which take time and are inexact. (Case in point: I was originally misdiagnosed with MS after being under a doctor’s observation for a year.)
On the other hand, if researchers were able to clearly establish the first (progression) type of biomarker, doctors could tell patients, “Whoa! You’re strolling down Parkinson’s yellow brick road and you’ve reached Mile X! Let’s take some action to forestall further progress and get you and those gorgeous ruby slippers back to Munchkinland!”
So this is what I think the two terms mean, although I have to admit it’s Friday night and I’m on my second glass of Sauvignon blanc. (I normally drink red wine but prefer a chilled crisp white when the weather’s sultry.)
The bottom lines:
- Scientists haven’t found either type of biomarker yet.
- We all should be volunteering for research trials. To find ones in your neck of the woods sign up with the Fox Trial Finder.
The brochure is helpful yet I ag ree you need to really read it a few times and then it sinks in. It’s good to know
I left blood at the end of a clinical trial that is to be used for “biomarker research.” Thanks for clarifying what that meant! 🙂