National Cancer Institute
U.S. National Institutes of Health | www.cancer.gov
In English | En español
NCI Home
Cancer Topics
Clinical Trials
Cancer Statistics
Research & Funding
News
About NCI
Dictionary of Cancer Terms
In English   En español
Page Options
Print This Page
More NCI Dictionaries
NCI Drug Dictionary

Glossary of Statistical Terms

NCI Dictionary of Genetics Terms

Terminology Resources
Quit Smoking Today
Search for
# A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
In English   En español

signature molecule (SIG-nuh-cher MAH-leh-kyool)

 A biological molecule found in blood, other body fluids, or tissues that is a sign of a normal or abnormal process, or of a condition or disease. A signature molecule may be used to see how well the body responds to a treatment for a disease or condition. Also called biomarker and molecular marker.



Previous Definitions:sigmoidoscope, sigmoidoscopy, signal transduction, signal transduction inhibitor, signaling pathway
Next Definitions:signet ring cell carcinoma, significant, SIL, sildenafil, silicon phthalocyanine 4

A Service of the National Cancer Institute
Department of Health and Human Services National Institutes of Health USA.gov