Neuroendocrine Biomarkers

Neuroendocrine cells are unique because they are found in almost every organ in the body. These cells often resemble other cell types, making it challenging to differentiate them based on histological imaging. In the case of neuroendocrine tumors, which can also occur in nearly all organs, neuroendocrine biomarkers are commonly utilized for diagnosis. Neuroendocrine biomarkers are classified into two categories, serum biomarkers and tissue biomarkers. The most commonly used neuroendocrine biomarkers in clinical practice are Synaptophysin, Chromogranin A, and CD56. These biomarkers are typically assessed in neuroendocrine tissue through immunohistochemistry testing, often used in combination to enhance diagnostic accuracy. Other tissue-detectable biomarkers include INSM1, S100, and Inhibin. Additionally, certain biomarkers, such as Neuron-Specific Enolase (NSE) and Serotonin, are predominantly utilized for diagnosing neuroendocrine tumors through serum analysis. This literature review aims to explore neuroendocrine biomarkers detected in serum and tissue, emphasizing their role in diagnosing neuroendocrine tumors.