By Kathryne Marks

Why are biomarkers important?

Looking for certain markers in a blood sample is a method that is helpful in the diagnosis many conditions, including Rheumatoid Disease (RD) and other autoimmune diseases. These biological markers—biomarkers— are increasingly helpful as we work to get to earlier and earlier diagnoses in order to hopefully get people treatment sooner—even before obvious symptoms—to improve outcomes.

There are a few different markers to know about, the most important of which are antibodies. Antibodies are produced by B cells, one of the most important types of cells of the adaptive immune system. Each B cell produces antibodies that are specific for, or capable of binding to, a particular other molecule. You don’t need to be an immunologist to understand why it is essential to identify these antibodies.