Emerging Biomarkers for Early Detection of Alzheimer's Disease: Progress and Challenges

Abstract

Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive cognitive decline, which poses a growing global health challenge due to an aging population. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in slowing disease progression and improving patient outcomes. Biomarkers have emerged as pivotal tools in detecting AD at its pre-symptomatic stages, offering insights into underlying pathophysiological processes before clinical symptoms appear. This review highlights the role of emerging biomarkers, including amyloid-β, tau, neurofilament light chain, and genetic markers, in early detection, disease monitoring, and personalized treatment strategies. Advances in mass spectrometry, liquid biopsy, and neuroimaging technologies have enhanced biomarker sensitivity, enabling better prediction of disease progression. Despite these advances, challenges remain, such as issues with biomarker sensitivity and specificity, the high cost of diagnostic technologies, and ethical concerns surrounding genetic testing and patient privacy. Standardization across assays and platforms is crucial for clinical application. The future of AD biomarker research lies in integrating multiple biomarkers and embracing precision medicine to tailor treatments to individual patient profiles.