Genomics, proteomics and the other –omics technologies discover many possible markers and then, through data analysis, identify potentially useful candidates. There is an alternative approach which involves identifying target cells and tissues and then developing specific biomarkers for them using specific immunochemical screening - Histomics.

Biotrin believe in measuring intracellular materials (e.g. proteins) that leak into a collectable sample (e.g. urine) when the target cells are damaged. Using this concept one can assess damage at the earliest stages and when the damage has ceased.

Histomics involves developing monoclonal antibodies against biomarkers associated with organ or cellular injury and using these as probes to locate their origin. For example, to develop new biomarkers for nephrotoxicity, rats were treated with toxins known to cause injury to defined parts of the renal tubule (e.g. collecting duct toxin Indomethicin). Urine samples were collected, the proteins concentrated and then used to develop monoclonal antibodies. The specific location of these antigens was identified by immunohistochemical staining of rat kidney sections. Clones expressing antibodies with specificity to defined renal structures are then cultured further and these antibodies are used to develop immunoassays.

Antisera to several defined regions of the nephron have been identified including specific targets in collecting ducts (Renal Papillary Antigen 1 - RPA-1), and loop of Henle (RPA-2) that show great promise as biomarkers for renal papillary necrosis. Eventually, it could be possible to obtain a complete picture of histological injury to the nephron from a urine sample and to detect injury earlier then by using current serum based tests, e.g., serum creatinine or BUN.