Proteomic approaches for biomarker discovery and clinical applications in autoimmune diseases

Autoimmune diseases (ADs) impact approximately 3% of the global population. It encompasses more than 80 chronic, often debilitating conditions resulting from immune system defects that lead the body to attack its tissues. Although many ADs are rare, their prevalence is rising. Despite advancements, ADs diagnosis and classification still rely heavily on clinical examination combined with conventional laboratory testing and imaging. Emerging proteomic screening, technologies now offer the potential to identify unique biomarkers for more precise diagnosis, classification, and treatment decisions. Protein profiling, an advancing area within proteomics, provides unparalleled insights into biological processes underlying these diseases. Thus, this review highlights recent developments in proteomic and genetic profiling for ADs pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment challenges, focusing on the clinical utility of proteomic techniques in prognosis, diagnosis, and therapeutic guidance. Notably, discovering new biomarkers through proteomic screening is crucial for creating robust multi-parameter assays, which enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment decisions in ADs.