Biomolecule - a molecule derived from a biological source, such as an enzyme or antibody.

Blood gases - the collective term for measurements taken frequently in intensive care medicine to asses the status of a patient that include the amount of oxygen, carbon dioxide and acidity in the blood.

Disease marker - a molecule that can be measured in the blood that is indicative of a clinical disease or event such as a heart attack or infection.

Electrolyte - any of various ions, such as sodium, potassium, or chloride, essential in the function of the body.

Microanalyser - small device based on a microchip that can measure several compounds at any one time.

Real-time analysis - analysis with no delay in receiving the results.

Metabolite - chemicals essential to life such as glucose and lactate.

Plasma - the non-cellular part of blood.

Transducer - a device that gives an electronic signal in response to chemicals at is surface.

Receptors - molecules that are able to bind with specific chemicals and other specific molecules.