biomarker stratification
The process of categorizing cancer patients into subgroups based on specific molecular markers to guide treatment decisions.
Full Definition
Biomarker stratification refers to the systematic classification of cancer patients into distinct therapeutic subgroups based on the presence or absence of specific molecular biomarkers identified through genomic analysis. This approach enables personalized treatment selection by matching patients to therapies most likely to be effective based on their tumor's molecular profile. The process involves analyzing genomic data to identify predictive biomarkers, establishing cut-off values for biomarker expression or mutation frequency, and creating treatment algorithms that incorporate these molecular findings alongside traditional clinical factors.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from general risk stratification, which may not involve molecular markers.
In Context
- "The clinical trial protocol required biomarker stratification to ensure balanced treatment arms." — Clinical trial design document
- "Biomarker stratification revealed three distinct patient subgroups with varying response rates." — Research publication