Biomarkers represent the future of drug development with analysts predicting growth in the market from an estimated $5.6bn in 2007 to $12.8bn by 2012, a massive compound average growth rate of 18 percent. The discovery and effective use of new biomarkers is expected to benefit each stage of the R&D process, from accelerating decision making to improving accuracy of clinical trials and minimising waste of resources.

Whilst the companies taking advantage and making best use of biomarkers are already harvesting the rewards, the use of biomarkers remains relatively restricted. However as the guidelines are reviewed and the regulatory bodies discuss their use, the true value biomarkers represent to the pharma industry will be realised and companies must be positioned to integrate them into their research and development strategies.

VIBpharma’s Biomarkers conference will discuss key issues related to each aspect of biomarkers, from discovery through to validation and related technology, enabling companies to harness the benefits they bring and capitalise on the industry growth.