Biomarcadores para diagnóstico e prognóstico de Alzheimer

Abstract

Introduction: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia worldwide, characterized by progressive neurodegenerative processes that impair cognition, behavior, and functionality. Early diagnosis remains challenging, as traditional methods, such as cerebrospinal fluid analysis and imaging tests, while considered the gold standard, are invasive, expensive, and poorly accessible on a large scale. In this context, peripheral biomarkers emerge as promising alternatives because they combine less invasiveness, greater clinical viability, and the potential to reflect early neuropathological changes. Objective: The present study aimed to carry out a literature review on the main biomarkers applied to the diagnosis and prognosis of Alzheimer's, also including studies that evaluate interventions, such as the use of probiotics, as long as they are directly related to the modulation of biomarkers associated with the pathophysiology, progression or early detection of the disease. Methods: This is a integrative review of the literature based on the PRISMA model, with selection of studies from the PubMed/Medline Periodicals Portal, Scielo and Virtual Health Library databases, using the descriptors: Alzheimer's, biomarkers, probiotics, in Portuguese and English, from 2019 to 2024. Results: This review highlights that biomarkers represent fundamental tools for the early diagnosis and prognosis of AD. While cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and imaging tests remain the standard, advances in peripheral markers such as p-tau, NfL, GFAP, and inflammatory cytokines expand the possibilities for clinical application because they are less invasive and more accessible. Furthermore, strategies such as probiotic and kefir supplementation show potential for modulating processes related to neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, suggesting promising avenues for future therapeutic interventions. Conclusion: The integration between classic, peripheral and innovative biomarkers points to a personalized and preventive medicine model, essential for tackling AD.