Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026

Preparation of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Pellets and Plasma from a Single Blood Draw at Clinical Trial Sites for Biomarker Analysis
Published on: March 20, 2021
A perspective on challenges and issues in biomarker development and drug and biomarker codevelopment
Sheila E Taube1, Gary M Clark, Janet E Dancey
1ST-Consulting, PO Box 260, Glen Echo, MD 20812-0260, USA. taubese63@alumni.brandeis.edu
Abstract:
A workshop sponsored by the National Cancer Institute and the US Food and Drug Administration addressed past lessons learned and ongoing challenges faced in biomarker development and drug and biomarker codevelopment. Participants agreed that critical decision points in the product life cycle depend on the level of understanding of the biology of the target and its interaction with the drug, the preanalytical and analytical factors affecting biomarker assay performance, and the clinical disease process. The more known about the biology and the greater the strength of association between an analytical signal and clinical result, the more efficient and less risky the development process will be. Rapid entry into clinical practice will only be achieved by using a rigorous scientific approach, including careful specimen collection and standardized and quality-controlled data collection. Early interaction with appropriate regulatory bodies will ensure studies are appropriately designed and biomarker test performance is well characterized.
Insights
Biomarker development requires understanding target biology and assay performance. Rigorous scientific approaches and early regulatory interaction streamline drug and biomarker codevelopment for clinical practice.
Area of Science:
- Biomarker discovery and development
- Translational science
- Regulatory science
Background:
- Workshop convened by National Cancer Institute and US Food and Drug Administration to discuss biomarker development challenges.
- Addressed lessons learned and ongoing issues in biomarker and drug codevelopment.
Framework:
- Product development hinges on understanding target biology, drug interactions, and disease processes.
- Stronger biological understanding and validated analytical signals reduce development risks and increase efficiency.
Implementation:
- Emphasized rigorous scientific methods, including meticulous specimen collection and standardized, quality-controlled data acquisition.
- Highlighted the importance of early engagement with regulatory bodies for appropriate study design.
Implications:
- Accelerated clinical adoption of novel diagnostics and therapeutics through optimized development pathways.
- Ensuring robust biomarker assay performance and well-characterized test results for reliable clinical application.
Related Concept Videos
Preclinical Development: Overview
Bioavailability Enhancement: Determination and Conceptual Approaches in Overcoming Bioavailability Problems
Biopharmaceutical Factors Influencing Drug Product Design: Overview
Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics: Overview
Clinical Trials: Overview
Drug Discovery: Overview
