Biomarkers of cholestasis

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Biomarker Discovery
• Molecular Diagnostics

Background:

• Cholestasis is a significant liver pathology with diverse causes, often asymptomatic and complex.
• Current diagnostic challenges include lack of straightforward biomarkers, hindering early detection and treatment.
• The 'omics' era has yielded numerous potential indicators, but a single, clinically applicable biomarker is still missing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review classical clinical and novel molecular biomarkers for cholestasis.
• To analyze the benefits and drawbacks of existing and emerging cholestatic biomarkers.
• To highlight the need for a multi-biomarker strategy in diagnosing cholestatic liver diseases.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of clinical and molecular biomarkers for cholestasis.
• Analysis of 'omics' data for potential diagnostic indicators.
• Evaluation of biomarker criteria and molecular pathways in cholestatic liver diseases.

Main Results:

• Classical biomarkers have limitations in sensitivity and specificity for cholestasis.
• Novel molecular biomarkers show promise but require further validation.
• A single biomarker is insufficient; a combination of markers from different domains is advocated.

Conclusions:

• Early detection of cholestasis remains challenging due to its complexity and lack of ideal biomarkers.
• A multi-biomarker approach, integrating various data domains, is essential for accurate diagnosis and management of cholestatic liver diseases.
• Future research should focus on validating novel molecular markers and developing integrated diagnostic panels.