Lastly, we will comment on the status of specific biomarkers as to whether they are potential validated, replicated, candidate or proven clinical biomarkers, as defined by Mikeska and Craig [12]. When relevant, experiments that lend supporting evidence to methylation findings, such as changes in gene expression via RNA measurement, protein expression, and even DNA-protein complex binding, will also be included. The results of network and pathway analyses are also interesting because they lend support to the involvement of aspects of physiology such as the immune system in the pathogenesis of disease and their effect on measurable biomarkers. In addition, when supporting evidence of exposure, such as serum cotinine assays, is included, these data will be discussed.
