A biomarker designates any indicator (nucleic acids, enzymes, metabolites and other types of molecules: histamines, hormones, proteins, etc.) present in the body or excreted by the body as a biological response to disease.
A biomarker can make it possible to identify the presence, the effect and/or the measurement of specific phenomena, such as:
- the rapid or early detection of a disease, before the first symptoms appear,
- the progression of a disease,
- the impact of a drug or treatment.
The identification and development of biomarkers will make it possible to perform faster, more accurate disease diagnostics and help physicians prescribe new treatments for those patients who are likely to benefit from them. Tests based on biomarkers often contribute to a faster cure and avoid time-consuming and costly analyses.
New biomarkers must be identified on a regular basis for the development of tests for each of our three core technologies (microbiology, immunoassays and molecular biology).
We make use of the most modern technologies to drive our research: biochips, mass spectrometry, proteomics, glycomics, etc. These extremely powerful technologies give us access to the very structure of the biomarker. The exploration of vast quantities of data requires large data storage capacities as well as expertise in mathematical analyses and bio-informatics.
In-house R&D and partnerships: in addition to our in-house R&D teams, our collaboration with joint research units in hospital and scientific centers represents one of our primary assets for the biomarker validation process. The fact that our researchers are present in highly specialized hospital centers facilitates targeted research as well as the discovery and validation of new and promising biomarkers for in vitro diagnostics. Working in close proximity to physicians and healthcare professionals gives us a clear vision and a sound understanding of their expectations and needs, which are constantly changing.
Participation in the ADNA program: the ADNA program (Advanced Diagnostics for New Therapeutic Approaches) is based on the identification and development of biomarkers. ADNA was designed to contribute to the development of personalized medical solutions, theranostics, in the areas of infectious diseases, cancer and rare genetic diseases, by making innovative products and services available to healthcare professionals.
Coordinated by Mérieux Alliance, the ADNA program brings together four key players:
- bioMérieux and GenoSafe, specializing in diagnostics
- Généthon and Transgene, specializing in treatment
Other partners contribute their expertise: the French Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS), Lyon University Hospitals - Lyon Civil Hospitals (HCL), STMicroelectronics and Claude Bernard University of Lyon.
*OSEO supports innovation and growth in companies through its three major areas of activity: aid to innovation, guaranteeing bank financing and actions with its own funds, and financing of investments and the operational cycle.