Mass spectrometry-driven advances in blood-based biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease: A mini-review

The core pathological characteristics of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are characterized by the deposition of β-amyloid plaques and the formation of tau protein neurofibrillary tangles. Clinical diagnosis predominantly relies on cerebrospinal fluid analysis or positron emission tomography. However, these methods are associated with the risks of invasive procedures and significant cost constraints. Mass spectrometry, with its high sensitivity (reaching the femtogram level) and capability for multiplex detection, facilitates not only the precise quantification of AD biomarkers in blood but also offers a cost-effective solution. This review systematically elucidates the advancements in the clinical application of mass spectrometry technology for risk assessment, early diagnosis, and therapeutic monitoring of AD. It also highlights recent breakthroughs in identifying novel blood biomarkers using mass spectrometry technology and a multi-omics integration strategy.