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The advent of multiomic approaches has significantly improved early cancer detection by integrating diverse molecular data to gain a more complete understanding of disease processes. While advances in genomic testing have led to progress in developing tools for early diagnosis, many current tests lack the sensitivity required to detect cancers early enough to improve long-term survival. A more comprehensive strategy that incorporates proteomics alongside genomics is critical for enhancing diagnostic accuracy, improving treatment strategies, and enabling timely intervention.
In recent years, proteomic-based technologies have enabled the identification of potential biomarkers that enhance cancer detection and progression monitoring. As cancer progresses, changes in protein profiles and differences in protein distribution—both in tissues and bodily fluids—offer valuable insights. Quantitative profiling of numerous proteins and monitoring their expression patterns over time can help identify biomarkers that effectively track disease progression and therapeutic response.
Detecting the immune response to cancer
Importantly, proteomic biomarkers can potentially detect the patient’s immune response to early cancer processes, even before cancer-specific biomarkers appear in the bloodstream. These subtle immune-related changes may not be easily detectable through other diagnostic methods. Proteomics techniques allow for the identification of minute shifts in protein expression levels or modifications that occur in the early stages of cancer development. By focusing on the immune response—an event that can precede the release of traditional cancer biomarkers—clinicians may be able to detect and intervene in cancer at a much earlier stage.
Complementary workflow for biomarker screening
For broad biomarker screening, multiplex Luminex® assays can provide the ability to analyze up to 50 analytes in a single sample. This high-throughput approach is ideal for identifying patterns and narrowing down key biomarkers. Once specific analytes of interest are identified, higher-precision tools, like Simple Plex™ Assays on the Ella™ Platform offer greater sensitivity and reproducibility for in-depth validation.
A prime example of this tiered approach is the identification and measurement of IFN-gamma levels in human serum, using two immunoassay platforms: High-Performance Luminex Assay, and Simple Plex assays. Each platform provides unique advantages tailored to different stages of biomarker analysis.
Luminex was first used for broad screening, allowing simultaneous analysis of multiple cytokines to efficiently identify relevant biomarkers. To enhance reproducibility and streamline workflow efficiency, Simple Plex assays on Ella, which uses automation and microfluidic precision to minimize variability, were used. Results showed strong correlation across the two platforms, enabling the confidence to transition from one platform to another to leverage each platform’s unique advantage. By combining the high-throughput capabilities of Luminex and the sensitivity and the precision of Ella, researchers can refine their workflow for both discovery and validation, ensuring high-confidence data for cancer biomarker research.
Optimizing early detection
The complementary use of multiplex and high-sensitivity immunoassays provides a robust framework for biomarker discovery and validation, ensuring reliable, high-confidence data. As technologies continue to advance, this integrated strategy will play a critical role in refining early detection methods and improving patient outcomes in oncology.
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