The Molecular Biology of NET: Current Status and Evaluation of Biomarkers for Prediction and Prognosis

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN) represent a heterogeneous neoplasia that are ubiquitous in location, exhibit protean symptomatology, and have ill-defined pathobiology. Clinical challenges include but are not limited to the general inability to establish an early diagnosis as well as the lack of a predictably effective management strategy. While clinical guidelines are useful and serve as a template for consensus-based thought, there is a paucity of scientific and mechanistic data necessary to accurately guide optimal management.