The role of biomarkers in disease diagnosis and treatment
Earlier diagnoses? More effective therapies? Less uncertainty in drug development? The answer may lie in biomarkers. At DC Fine Chemicals, we explore how to unlock their full potential.
What are biomarkers and why are they so important in medicine?
A biomarker is a measurable molecule, gene, protein, or biological characteristic that helps identify normal or pathological physiological processes, or the body's response to treatment.
Están presentes en sangre, tejidos, fluidos corporales u otras muestras biológicas.
Biomarkers can be found in blood, tissue, body fluids, or other biological samples. They enable the early detection of diseases, tracking their progression, guiding therapy selection, and evaluating its effectiveness. As such, they are essential tools in both clinical and research settings.
Biomarkers and personalised medicine
Personalised medicine would not be possible without the use of biomarkers. Thanks to their application, patients can now be stratified according to their genetic or molecular profile, going beyond what symptoms alone can reveal.
This approach allows for the development of more targeted treatments, with fewer side effects and improved clinical outcomes. In fields like oncology, biomarker analysis is now standard practice before prescribing therapies, such as in certain types of breast, colon, or lung cancer.
Early diagnosis through biomarkers
One of the key advantages of biomarkers is their ability to detect diseases at very early stages, even before clinical symptoms appear. This is particularly valuable for conditions like neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and metabolic disorders.
Having access to this information allows healthcare professionals to act proactively, implementing preventive measures or initiating early treatments, which can significantly improve patient outcomes.
The role of biomarkers in drug development
In the pharmaceutical industry, biomarkers are playing an increasingly pivotal role in the development of new drugs. They enable the selection of suitable patient profiles, accurate measurement of therapeutic response, and optimization of clinical trials.
Beyond reducing time and cost, biomarkers are accelerating the development of targeted therapies that offer greater efficacy and lower toxicity. For any laboratory focused on innovation, biomarkers represent a strategic asset.
Challenges in biomarker use: Quality and regulatory compliance
Working with biomarkers requires rigorous validation, tightly controlled processes, and strict adherence to quality standards. From diagnostic test design to component selection, every step must ensure reproducibility, stability, and safety.
This is why it is essential to work with high-purity chemical raw materials, guaranteed traceability, and full regulatory compliance, particularly in clinical or in vitro diagnostic environments.
Chemical raw materials for biomarkers: Your strategic partner
Bringing biomarker-based developments to market successfully takes more than just a solid formulation. You need a knowledgeable partner who understands the complexity of regulated environments and can adapt to your technical and logistical needs.
At DC Fine Chemicals, we work closely with companies in the diagnostics, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology sectors, supplying high-quality fine chemical raw materials essential for the formulation of reagents, culture media, diagnostic kits, and research-phase products.
As manufacturers, we offer more than just products - we provide expert technical support, complete traceability, and operational flexibility.
If your work relies on reliability, purity, and regulatory compliance, we are here to help you move forward with confidence.
Impact of artificial intelligence on the fine chemicals industry
Can you imagine anticipating errors before they happen and adapting your production in record time? Fine chemistry requires precision, quality, and adaptability. Artificial intelligence is the ultimate tool to achieve this. At DC Fine Chemicals, we explain how to leverage it in your company.
Inauguration of DC Fine Chemicals’ new facility
On March 7th, DC Fine Chemicals marked a significant milestone with the official opening of our new facility in Terrassa. This 7-million-euro investment enhances our operational capacity and underscores our commitment to sustainability and innovation. Additionally, this expansion is expected to create a 20% increase in local employment.
The event was graced by esteemed guests, including Miquel Sàmper, Minister of Business and Labor of the Generalitat, Jordi Ballart, Mayor of Terrassa, and Joan Roget, President of FEDEQUIM. We were also joined by representatives from PIMEC Vallès Occidental, CECOT, and the Cambra de Comerç of Terrassa.
Expanding capacity and commitment to sustainability
Our new facility nearly triples the space of our previous location in Cornellà, with a total area of 7,300 m² and a 3,050 m² building. This expansion allows us to increase storage capacity from 900 to 2,000 pallets, improving both logistics and operational efficiency. In line with our dedication to sustainability, the facility includes 108 photovoltaic panels, generating 50 kW of power, green spaces, and electric vehicle charging points.
Message from our managing director, Juli Orihuela
Juli Orihuela took the opportunity to thank everyone involved in the project, noting the crucial roles played by customers, employees, partners, and supporting institutions.
"This new facility marks an important step forward for DC Fine Chemicals. We have not only increased storage capacity and optimized our operations but have done so with a focus on sustainability and efficiency," said Juli. "We believe the future of our industry lies in excellence, environmental responsibility, and constant innovation."
Juli also shared the positive impact on the local economy: "Since October, we have increased our workforce by 10%, with 25% of our employees coming from Terrassa. We are committed to growing and contributing to the chemical and pharmaceutical sectors."
Statements from the authorities
Jordi Ballart, Mayor of Terrassa, emphasized the strategic importance of the new facility: "Terrassa is a key location for industry, with its excellent communications and surrounding business ecosystem. The collaboration between public and private sectors drives economic and social progress, and DC Fine Chemicals exemplifies this."
Miquel Sàmper, Minister of Business and Labor, highlighted the broader impact: "This project strengthens Catalonia's position in the chemical sector and serves as a model for sustainable industrial growth. The 7-million-euro investment and job creation are a clear commitment to the high-quality chemical industry in our region."
Joan Roget, President of FEDEQUIM, praised the company’s ongoing growth: "It's a source of pride to see a company rooted in Terrassa's industrial heritage continue to innovate. In a challenging European context, projects like this inspire confidence in the future of the sector."
Celebrating the expansion and facility tour
After the speeches, attendees were invited to tour the new facility, offering a firsthand look at the improvements in capacity, efficiency, and sustainability. The day concluded with a celebratory toast, marking this important chapter in the history of DC Fine Chemicals.
We are grateful for the support we have received and excited about the future as we embark on this new stage. We extend our thanks to everyone who is part of DC Fine Chemicals and those who joined us for this memorable occasion.
Media coverage of the event:
Juli Orihuela appointed as Managing Director of DC Fine Chemicals
We are thrilled to announce that Juli Orihuela has been appointed as the new Managing Director of DC Fine Chemicals. With an extensive and successful career within the company, this appointment marks a significant milestone in his professional journey.
A journey of growth and dedication
Juli’s career at DC Fine Chemicals spans over a decade, beginning in 2015 as a Business Development Manager. His role in steering the company’s business development efforts has been pivotal to DC Fine Chemicals’ growth trajectory. Under his leadership, the company expanded its global reach, establishing key partnerships and driving revenue growth in international markets. Juli's expertise in crafting commercial strategies has made him a central figure in defining the company’s market positioning.
His contributions have not been confined to the commercial realm alone. Juli has played an instrumental role in shaping DC Fine Chemicals’ internal operations, particularly in human resources and IT solutions. His efforts to foster a positive company culture and implement HR policies that promote collaboration and innovation have been critical to the organization’s success. Furthermore, his leadership in IT has streamlined operations, improved efficiency, and positioned the company for continued growth in an increasingly digital world.
Juli has extensive experience in business development, logistics, and IT, with a strong focus on strategic planning, operational efficiency, and the implementation of technology solutions. He has a proven track record of managing teams, improving internal processes, and driving business growth through innovative approaches and effective leadership.
A vision for the future
With his breadth of experience and proven track record, Juli brings invaluable expertise to guide DC Fine Chemicals into the future. His deep industry knowledge, strategic mindset, and commitment to excellence will continue to drive the company’s growth and success. As Managing Director, Juli’s leadership will be pivotal in shaping the next chapter of the company’s evolution.
We are confident that under his direction, DC Fine Chemicals will continue to thrive, innovate, and deliver outstanding results.
Please join us in congratulating Juli on his new role as Managing Director. We look forward to a bright future under his leadership.
Discover our Microbiology Pharma Product List
Discover our Microbiology Pharma Product List
At DC Fine Chemicals, we understand that microbiology necessitates a selection of specific products for the cultivation, differentiation, and examination of microorganisms. The outcomes of pharmaceutical microbiology are largely determined by the caliber and particularity of the employed tools and reagents. Following is a categorisation of pivotal products we offer in this domain, with each serving a unique function in guaranteeing precision and consistency in results.
Sample Preparation and Cultivation
1. Basic Media and Supplements
-
- INORGANIC SALTS & SPECIALTY PRODUCTS: Essential components for many culture media, ensuring the necessary mineral provision for microbial growth.
- CARBOHYDRATES: Act as a primary carbon source, giving microorganisms essential energy.
- AMINO ACIDS: Fundamental nutrients, enhancing the growth of specific microorganisms.
- BLOOD DERIVATIVES: Used in enriched media like blood agar, facilitating the growth of fastidious microorganisms.
2. Selective and Differential Media
-
- BILE ACIDS: Utilised in selective media to inhibit gram-positive bacteria and encourage gram-negative bacterial growth.
- ANTIBIOTICS & PRESERVATIVES: Antibiotics prevent unwanted microbial growth in selective media, while preservatives extend the shelf life of solutions.
3. Stabilisers and Regulators
-
- BUFFERS: Ensure that the pH level of culture media and solutions remains optimal, crucial for many microorganisms' growth.
Diagnosis and Detection
1. Staining and Visualisation
-
- STAINS & INDICATORS: Stains, like the Gram stain, differentiate and identify microorganisms. Indicators help detect pH changes or specific bio-productions.
- CHROMOGENIC SUBSTRATES: Chromogenic substrates are colourless soluble molecules consisting of a chromophore – a chemical group that, after enzymatic cleavage, releases colour – and a specific enzymatic substrate. They are synthetically produced and are designed to possess a selectivity similar to the natural substrate for the enzyme. These compounds are useful for enzymatic detection, as chromogenic substrates specifically bind with the target enzyme. This reaction allows the enzyme to catalyze the separation of the chromophore group, resulting in an insoluble product with a distinctive colour – releasing the chromophore – that confirms the existence and activity of the enzyme under study.
2. Biochemical and Enzymatic Tests and Molecular Detection
-
- ENZYMES: Crucial for determining the enzymatic activity of microorganisms in various biochemical tests.
- NUCLEIC ACIDS AND DERIVATIVES: Integral for molecular techniques, facilitating precise identification and diagnosis.
Special and Auxiliary Products
-
- OTHER KEY PRODUCTS: This general category encompasses essential products specifically tailored for microbiological techniques and procedures.
Article written by Sherry Cacay, Marketing Manager of DC Fine Chemicals
Discover our Microbiology Product List
Discover our Quality ACS Reagents From DC Fine Chemicals
Discover our Quality ACS Reagents From DC Fine Chemicals
At DC Fine Chemicals, we focus on quality and innovation. We maintain a high level of quality of both the products and service which we provide. This is especially important in the supply of analytical reagents. From this background, we bring you a range of ACS reagents, produced and tested to conform to the American Chemical Society monograph for analytical reagents. This range meets the quality benchmark for analytical reagents, offering our customers reliable products for analysis and production where this standard is required. This ensures reliability, consistency thus reproducibility for your analyses and processes.
Reliability through reliable analyses
Our analytical reagents are rigorously tested in our in-house QC lab to ensure conformance. We know that the quality and purity of the analytical reagents used is decisive for the daily tasks performed in the laboratory.
Article written by Sherry Cacay, Marketing Manager of DC Fine Chemicals
Discover our ACS Reagent Chemicals
Discover our range of Chromogenic Substrates
Discover our range of Chromogenic Substrates
Chromogenic substrates are colourless soluble molecules made up of two parts:
- a chromophore - a chemical group that, after enzymatic cleavage, releases colour and,
- a specific enzymatic substrate, usually a digestible carbohydrate
These compounds are useful for enzymatic detection, as chromogenic substrates specifically bind with the target enzyme. This reaction allows the enzyme to catalyze the separation of the chromophore group, resulting in an insoluble product with a distinctive colour that confirms the existence and activity of the enzyme under study. The intensity of the colour can be quantified in chromogenic assays in techniques such as Western blot, ELISA, immunohistochemistry, enzymatic assays, and microbial detection in culture media.
Why use Chromogenic Substrates?
Chromogenic substrates have applications in various areas:
- Microbiology: For use in culture media, diagnostic tests in clinical laboratories, identification of microorganisms, and in the food industry.
- Biotechnology: For colourimetric detection, providing a cost-effective detection technique, from immunohistochemistry to Western blot and ELISA.
https://www.dcfinechemicals.com/en/blog/chromogenic-substrates-overview/
Our new range of Chromogenic Substrates
At DC Fine Chemicals, we have a new range of chromogenic substrates. We have sorted them according to the colour they produce, the name of the substrate, other synonyms they are known by, their CAS number, and the type of enzyme they specifically bind to.
- Lapis Substrates (Deep Blue)
- X-Substrates (Blue Green)
- Magenta Substrates (Magenta to Lilac)
- Salmon Substrates (Pink)
- Other Chromogenic Substrates
| Clasification | DCFC Code | Substrates | Synonims | CAS | Enzyme |
| Lapis Substrates
(Deep Blue) |
125290 | 5-Bromo-3-indolyl phosphate disodium salt | Blue-phos | 16036-59-2 | Alkaline phosphatase |
| X-Substrates
(Blue Green)
|
125030 | 5-Bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl-β-D-cellobioside | X-Cellobioside | 177966-52-8 | β-Cellobiosidase |
| 125000 | 5-Bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl caprylate | X-Caprylate | 129541-42-0 | Esterase | |
| 125220 | 5-Bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl-α-D-galactopyranoside | X-α-Gal, X-α-D-Galactoside | 107021-38-5 | α-Galactosidase | |
| 124980 | 5-Bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl-α-D-glucopyranoside | X-α-Glucoside | 108789-36-2 | α-Glucosidase | |
| 124960 | 5-Bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl-N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminide | X-N-Acetyl-β-D-glucosaminide; X-Glucosaminide | 4264-82-8 | N-Acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase | |
| Magenta Substrates (Magenta to Lilac)
|
125020 | 5-Bromo-6-chloro-3-indolyl-β-D-glucopyranoside | Magenta-glucoside | 93863-89-9 | β-Glucosidase |
| 125010 | 5-Bromo-6-chloro-3-indolyl-α-D-glucopyranoside | Magenta-α-D-glucoside | 878495-64-8 | α-Glucosidase | |
| 124990 | 5-Bromo-6-chloro-3-indolyl phosphate disodium salt | Magenta-phos | 404366-59-2 | Alkaline phosphatase | |
| 124970 | 5-Bromo-6-chloro-3-indolyl-β-D-galactopyranoside | Magenta-gal | 93863-88-8 | β-Galactosidase | |
| 125240 | 5-Bromo-6-chloro-3-indolyl-β-D-glucuronide, cyclohexylammonium salt | Magenta-GlcA CHA salt, Magenta-gluc CHA salt | 144110-43-0 | β-Glucuronidase | |
| Salmon Substrates (Pink)
|
125260 | 6-Chloro-3-indolyl-α-D-galactopyranoside | Salmon-α-gal | 198402-61-8 | α-Galactosidase |
| 103380 | 6-Chloro-3-indolyl-β-D-galactopyranoside | Salmon-gal | 138182-21-5 | β-Galactosidase | |
| 125250 | 6-Chloro-3-indolyl-β-D-glucopyranoside | Salmon-glucoside | 159954-28-6 | β-Glucosidase | |
| 125230 | 6-Chloro-3-indolyl-β-D-glucuronide, cyclohexylammonium salt | Salmon-glcA CHA salt, Salmon-gluc CHA salt | 138182-20-4 | β-Glucuronidase | |
| Other Chromogenic Substrates
(Blackish purple) |
125210 | 5-Bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl phosphate disodium salt | X-Phosphate disodium salt, BCIP | 102185-33-1 | Alkaline phosphatase, often in conjunction with NBT |
| 125270 | Nitro blue tetrazolium | NBT, Nitro BT | 298-83-9 | Alkaline phosphatase |
If you want to learn more about these substrates and how they can enhance your operations, we are here to help. Please contact us at [email protected] to arrange a meeting with one of our team.
Article written by Sherry Cacay, Marketing Manager of DC Fine Chemicals
Discover our Chromogenic Substrates
With an investment of 7 million euros, DC Fine Chemicals boosts employment and sustainability at its new headquarters
- DC Fine Chemicals, with an investment of 7 million euros in its new headquarters, forecasts a 20% increase in job creation, reaffirming its international presence and commitment.
- The new DC Fine Chemicals center stands out for tripling the previous space and increasing storage and palletizing capacity, while also reinforcing its commitment to sustainability through the implementation of photovoltaic panels and green areas.
- The event was attended by notable figures such as the Mayor of Terrassa, the Director General of Industry of the Generalitat of Catalonia, prominent entities such as CECOT, the Chamber of Commerce of Terrassa, FEDEQUIM, and the Higher School of Industrial, Aerospace and Audiovisual Engineering of Terrassa (ESEIAAT).
Barcelona, Spain – DC Fine Chemicals, an international provider in the supply of fine chemical products for the areas of Diagnosis, Life Sciences, Pharmaceutical Industry, and Process Solutions, has celebrated the laying of the first stone at its new headquarters in Terrassa. The event was attended by the Mayor of Terrassa, the Director General of Industry of the Generalitat of Catalonia, and prominent entities such as CECOT, the Chamber of Commerce of Terrassa, FEDEQUIM, and the Higher School of Industrial, Aerospace, and Audiovisual Engineering of Terrassa (ESEIAAT).
In addition to its headquarters in the UK, DC Fine Chemicals is expanding its operations to a 7300 m² site in Terrassa, tripling the space of its former facilities. The new building, measuring 3050 m², allows for total storage without the need for external warehouses and a palletizing capacity of up to 1900 pallets, compared to the 900 pallets of its old warehouse.
With a diverse catalog that includes bile acids, nucleic acids, amino acids, antimicrobials, active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), carbohydrates, dyes and indicators, enzymes, excipients, analytical reagents, and biological buffers, DC Fine Chemicals is able to provide tailor-made solutions adapted to the needs of its clients. Its commitment to quality and innovation has been accredited with ISO 9001 certifications since 2011, GDP since 2018, and ISO 14001 since 2021. The company's new facilities constitute the perfect space to foster the development of new projects and accelerate the company's expansion.
Josep Mª Cortés, General Manager of DC Fine Chemicals, said, “This significant project, backed by an investment of 7 million euros, not only expands our production and storage capacities but also strengthens our ongoing growth objective.” He concluded, "This future plant, which in its first phase will triple our current capacity, will be equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for the storage and handling of various types of chemical substances”.
On the other hand, during the symbolic act of laying the first stone, Juli Orihuela, Director of Business Development, stated: "We have started the crucial stage of the plant construction. With this expansion, we anticipate a 20% growth in job creation."
Advances in Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
The new facilities, with a height of 14.5 m and 7 palletizing levels, represent a significant improvement in terms of safety and efficiency. Additionally, the site has 46 parking spaces and between 2 and 4 charging points for electric vehicles.
The new center also presents significant advances in terms of sustainability and energy efficiency. The facilities are equipped with 108 photovoltaic panels of 2 x 1 m, capable of generating 50 kW, emphasizing the company's commitment to clean energy and reducing environmental impact. The design of the headquarters also incorporated green areas to complement its commitment to the environment.
In line with these values, DC Fine Chemicals was recently recognized for its commitment to the planet by voluntarily joining the 'Voluntary Agreements Program for the Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG)', promoted by the Generalitat of Catalonia.
Official Act for the Laying of the First Stone of the New Headquarters
This morning, the official act of laying the first stone took place, which was presided over by the Mayor of Terrassa, Jordi Ballart and Pastor, and attended by representatives from various economic entities and business organizations.
Jordi Ballart i Pastor, Mayor of Terrassa, expressed his support for the expansion of DC Fine Chemicals in the city: "With the arrival of DC Fine Chemicals, Terrassa reinforces its role in the region as an industrial powerhouse of the country, attracting companies with growth perspectives. We are located in an exceptional location, connected by the main communication routes of the region, and have a strong and powerful business fabric, as well as industrial land to continue enhancing synergies, consolidating existing value chains and attracting new investments that can offer job opportunities for the people of Terrassa.”
For his part, Oriol Alcoba, Director General of Industry, said: “The decision of DC Fine Chemicals to expand in Terrassa is a tangible demonstration of the vitality and ability to attract new projects of our chemical industry. This milestone represents a perfect combination of entrepreneurship, innovation, and respect for sustainability, aspects that are fundamental for the industrial development of Catalonia."
Joan Roget, President of the Catalan Chemical Industry Business Federation (FEDEQUIM), congratulated DC Fine Chemicals on their achievement: “We welcome a "different kind of Chemistry." In Vallès, there's a new heavyweight player with strong foundations in Science and People Relations. This will undoubtedly help strengthen the entire chemical and health sciences “cluster” (if we can call it that) in our environment. Friends Josep Maria, Juli, and Lenny, knowing you, I am sure you will achieve the greatest successes in this new phase that begins now!”
Xavier Panés, president of the Cecot employer's association, spoke about the need to increase the weight of the industrial sector in our economic model: “Beyond recent statements at the European level in favor of strategic sovereignty and the reindustrialization that Europe needs, at Cecot we have always argued that industrial companies bring innovation and research as the foundation of economic productivity, more balanced trade balances, higher-qualified jobs, and ultimately contribute to greater well-being and social cohesion in the territory where they operate. Thus, the decision of DC Fine Chemicals to expand with a new headquarters aligns completely with this purpose we share, and I also want to highlight that they are doing so in one of the most industrialized regions of southern Europe, Vallès. Without a doubt, through networking, we hope to contribute to their growth and improve their competitiveness".
Nacho Navarro, Second Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce of Terrassa said, “The recovery of industrial weight in Terrassa is a strategic and structural necessity that should guide the efforts of all the socio-economic institutions of the city in the shortest term, and the Chamber offers all its business and relational capabilities to contribute to this."
As part of the symbolic ceremony of the first stone, the act consisted of burying a chest that contained letters written by the partners, messages from employees, an erlenmeyer flask representing fine chemistry, a document recounting this day signed by the partners and entities, plans of the warehouse, the Terrassa Diary, and current coins.
The Importance of High-Quality Chemicals in Cell Culture: Growing Cells as Model Systems In Vitro
Cell culture is used for large molecule production and for research, in the study of cellular and molecular biology. Rapidly evolving vaccine production is done by cell culture. In research, by creating model systems that replicate disease mechanisms, researchers can investigate the toxicity of novel drug compounds and explore the role of genes in health and disease.
At DC Fine Chemicals, we support cell culture projects with our high-quality chemicals and reagents, such as:
Antibiotics
Biological buffers
ACES
HEPES
MOPS
Tris
Nutrients
Ascorbic acid
D-Biotin
Calcium D-pantothenate
Glucose
Inositol
Sodium pyruvate
Inorganics and pH indicators
Ammonium chloride
Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate
Di-Sodium hydrogen phosphate
Phenol red
Osmotic regulators
Please contact us if you are using any of these reagents. Let's collaborate and contribute to the success of your cell culture experiments.
For a deeper understanding of cell culture and its applications, explore the comprehensive review by Segeritz and Vallier (2017): "Cell Culture: Growing Cells as Model Systems In Vitro," available at doi: 10.1016/B978-0-12-803077-6.00009-6, PMCID: PMC7149418
Richard, new Sales Manager
New Sales Manager
Richard Bradley has joined the sales team at DC Fine Chemicals. Richard has extensive experience within the Fine Chemicals sector, having spent 20 years with Apollo Scientific in the UK. Alongside his sales responsibilities within the Life Sciences sector, he was also responsible for marketing. Prior to this, he worked as a lab technician after graduating with honours in Chemistry with Applied Chemistry from Newcastle University.
Richard will be responsible for the UK and Ireland markets and we are confident that his experience across many regions and knowledge of new and interesting products will be a great addition to our expertise at DC Fine Chemicals.
Contact:
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richbrad38/