Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) stem from the loss of neurons and
related progressive disruption of psychological, cognitive, and motor functions. The
development of NDDs results from either disruption or dysfunction of normal nervous
tissues or the accumulation of pathologically altered proteins in the brain. Traditionally,
the diagnoses are based on clinical presentations, with limited sensitivity for early
diagnosis and specificity for differential diagnosis. However, advancements in the
research of biomarkers and biosensing techniques have led to additional promising
strategies for the molecular diagnosis of NDDs.
In this chapter, we have reviewed the clinical features, diagnostic criteria and known
genetic and protein biomarkers of common NDDs. We have also discussed the
importance of bioenergetics in the development of NDDs. Finally, we have placed
emphasis on current developments in the detection and diagnosis of NDDs, including
neuroimaging, metabolome profiling, and biosensors for NDD biomarkers. Biosensing
provides a noninvasive way to diagnose NDDs at an early stage to detect alterations
and abnormal products in the blood and brain tissues with high sensitivity and
selectivity. This chapter is expected to provide an overview of the recent advances in
diagnosing NDDs, as well as pointing out the current progress and challenges in the
evaluation and treatment of NDDs and beyond.
Keywords: Biomarkers, Biosensing, Neurodegenerative diseases.
