Biomarkers to Identify Protein Metabolism Impairment in Chronic/Acute Diseases

Clinical studies show that malnutrition and protein metabolic impairment in industrialised countries, is present
in about 45% of elderly hospitalised patients, particularly with chronic diseases. Impairment of protein metabolism
causes significant loss of body proteins including muscular proteins with sarcopenia, cachexia, morbidity and
increased hospital stay and mortality. In anticipation of more sophisticated genetic and/or molecular biomarkers, here
we have presented a simple rationale for the use of repeatable biomarkers that could be performed routinely at the
bed-side of chronic patients. This could help clinicians to early identify and monitor protein metabolism impairment.
Identifying and treating protein metabolism related abnormalities before they become irreversible and dangerous, is
indispensable for the success of any therapeutic schedule.