Oxidative and Glycation Stress Biomarkers: Advances in Detection Technologies and Point-of-Care Clinical Applications

Abstract

Oxidative and glycation stress are interrelated pathological processes that significantly contribute to the development and progression of chronic diseases, including diabetes, chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disorders, and neurodegenerative conditions. These processes alter biomolecules by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), reactive nitrogen species (RNS), and advanced glycation end products (AGEs), thereby amplifying cellular dysfunction. Therefore, precise monitoring of these biomarkers is essential for understanding disease mechanisms and for clinical assessments. Conventional methods, such as chromatography, mass spectrometry, and immunoassays, provide high sensitivity and specificity; however, their extensive clinical application is restricted owing to their high cost, labor intensity, and equipment requirements. In contrast, emerging electrochemical and optical biosensor technologies offer advantages in terms of rapidity, portability, and real-time analysis and hold promise for point-of-care (POC) testing and integration into wearable devices. This review systematically summarizes the detection principles and clinical applications of oxidative and glycation stress-related biomarkers and highlights the need for integrated monitoring systems that can simultaneously capture both processes. Advances in these technologies are expected to contribute significantly to early diagnosis, risk stratification, and implementation of personalized medicine.