July 25, 2026 · Journal of hepatology · DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2026.07.016

A framework and shared vocabulary to identify actionable protein biomarkers and enable optimal precision medicine: Myth-Busting with Unicorn Biomarkers

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The authors seek to establish a clear framework and shared vocabulary to differentiate between validated protein biomarkers and unvalidated findings in the context of precision medicine. They emphasize the need for rigorous technical, scientific, and regulatory standards to ensure that only clinically actionable biomarkers are recognized, introducing the concept of "Unicorn Biomarkers" to highlight those with validated multipurpose utility. This framework aims to guide stakeholders in advancing biomarker discovery and development, ultimately enhancing patient care.

Morten A Karsdal, Anne-Christine Bay-Jensen, Daniel Guldager Kring Rasmussen, Aleksander Krag, Stine Johansen, Quentin M Anstee, Diana J Leeming, Federica Genovese, Arun J Sanyal, Cecilie L Bager, Robert J Benschop, Salvador Augustin, Darren Ruane, Neeraj Adya, Jörn M Schattenberg, Ali Mobasheri, Veronica Miller, Maja Thiele, Roberto A Calle, Patrick Bossuyt, Adam Platt, Signe H Larsen, Kim Henriksen, Vincent Bonneau, Bruno Golding, Mohamed Hassanein, Sumanta Mukherjee, Sarah Harris, Zoltan Derdak, Suneil Hosmane, Paresh Thakker, Virginia B Kraus

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