Emerging biomarkers for cancer diagnosis: Paving the way for precision oncology

Abstract

Cancer is one of the most ubiquitously present diseases in the world along with cardiovascular disorders and diabetes. Decades have passed, but still the ultimate treatment for this disorder is not found. However, recent innovations in technology have developed some promising methods for detection and treatment of this disease, therefore, giving rise to the field of precision oncology. Biomarkers are advanced methods used in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, including cancer. Multiple bioassays have been developed for the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer including, circulating tumour cells (CTCs), liquid biopsy, exosomes, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), metabolomic markers and imaging biomarkers. All of these methods are found to be effective in malignant detection, progression and treatment. From the detection of circulating cancer cells, DNA, RNA and exosomes in blood to the imaging of the cancer metabolites in body, advancements have been made. Although these biomarkers are capable of treating cancer but various drawbacks are still present in their sensitivity and stability. In order to meet this issue, the combination of these biomarkers is recommended and found to be efficacious, such as, the integration of metabolomics and imaging techniques is found to be promising technique for precision oncology and targeted therapies against cancer. In this article, we will discuss the emerging biomarkers of cancer and how these bioassays are making the way for personalized medicine, precision oncology and targeted therapies.