Blood-based biomarkers in Alzheimer's disease: a mini-review

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia and has far reaching consequences for patients and their caregivers. Early detection and treatment are key factors in limiting the impact of the disease. However, a definitive diagnosis of AD requires an examination of brain tissue during an autopsy. Although a plethora of biomarkers such as neuroimaging, electrophysiological, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers are available, their utility is limited to research due to their poor reach and prohibitive cost. In order for biomarkers to be widely used, they need to be accessible, affordable, and conducive for the patient population or disease stage. Blood-based biomarkers may not only be less expensive and more accessible compared to neuroimaging or CSF tests, but they are also preferred by patients with AD as they are much less invasive. In this mini-review article, we expand on the rationale for the use of blood-based biomarkers, review currently available biomarkers and discuss the need for the standardization of these biomarkers. We contrast the blood-based biomarkers with other available biomarkers and discuss the advantages of using a panel of blood-based biomarkers to strengthen their accuracy.