Surrogate Molecular Biomarkers for Poststroke Cognitive Impairment: A Narrative Review
Nerea Gorostiola-Oyarzabal1,2, Ana Joya1, Mari Mar Freijo3,4
1Neurolinguistics and Aphasia Group, Basque Center on Cognition, Brain and Language, San Sebastian, Spain (N.G.-O., A.J., S.M.).
Stroke
|August 8, 2025
Summary
Molecular biomarkers may predict cognitive impairment after stroke. This review examines their prognostic value and the scientific rigor of studies, aiming for a consensus on stroke recovery management.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
- Clinical Neurology
Background:
- Cognitive impairment is common after stroke, affecting daily function and survival.
- Early risk assessment and personalized interventions are crucial for stroke recovery.
- Molecular biomarkers detected in blood show potential for predicting post-stroke cognitive decline.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing research on molecular biomarkers for predicting post-stroke cognitive deterioration.
- To assess the neuropsychological rigor of methodologies used in biomarker studies.
- To contribute to a scientific consensus on managing stroke recovery.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of published research.
- Analysis of studies investigating molecular biomarkers in plasma or serum.
- Focus on biomarker variations related to global and domain-specific cognitive performance.
Main Results:
- Identified molecular biomarkers associated with post-stroke cognitive impairment.
- Highlighted variability in the predictive value of these biomarkers.
- Examined the methodological quality of studies assessing biomarker prognostic value.
Conclusions:
- Molecular biomarkers show promise but require further validation for predicting cognitive decline post-stroke.
- Standardized, neuropsychologically rigorous methodologies are needed for consensus.
- Establishing biomarker utility is key for effective stroke recovery management.
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