Research progress on biomarkers of traumatic brain injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common disorder of the nervous system and has become a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, imposing a substantial burden on patients and their social circles. Its main symptoms include dyskinesia, language acquisition difficulties, and cognitive decline. Because of its complexity and diversity, the diagnosis and treatment of TBI have consistently been key areas of focus in medical research. Traditional imaging methods, including X-ray computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are proficient at identifying overt structural abnormalities; however, their sensitivity in detecting subtle or hidden brain injuries is somewhat restricted. CT is insensitive to nonhemorrhagic lesions and cannot accurately evaluate the degree of injury. The detection rate of microhemorrhagic foci and specific types of TBI by MRI is low; other technologies have complicated operation and high equipment requirements. Therefore, the utilization of biological indicators, or biomarkers, in assessing and predicting the course and outcome of TBI holds immense importance in both diagnostic and prognostic evaluations. This overview reviews the research progress of biomarkers in TBI. Recognizing the significance of TBI-related biomarkers, understanding the pertinent key molecular pathways, and staying informed about the latest advancements in treatment methods are of utmost importance. However, research on TBI biomarkers continues to face challenges. To advance the field, future efforts should focus on delving deeper into the mechanisms, refining more sensitive and tailored detection methodologies, conducting extensive clinical validations, and exploring the potential of personalized treatment plans.