Introduction to clinical proteomics

Within the context of this section, biomarkers are defined as a panel of proteins and peptides that are predictive of the risk for developing a pathological condition. It is important to note here that the use of the descriptor ‘panel’ is purposeful in that single “biomarkers” are rarely sufficient to permit accurate prediction of a pathological condition. More specifically, the primary application of a biomarker panel is that it serves as a molecular indicator of the severity of a disease or its early response to treatment. In this way, biomarkers enable the application of precision medicine, an approach that tailors specific interventions to those individuals that would most benefit. For a recent comprehensive review of the proteomic-based biomarker development process with a focus on bladder cancer, the reader is directed to Frantzi et al. [Clin Transl Med 3:7, 2014], or a special issue with multiple reviews [Stuhler and Poschmann, Biochim Biophys Acta Proteins Proteomics 1844:859-1058, Elsevier, B V, 2014].