The present invention provides methods for identifying various biological states. Methods for diagnosis of diseases, in particular cardiovascular and brain diseases, are provided herein. One aspect of the invention is the analysis of lipoprotein complexes with summary survey scan mass spectrum for the analysis of biological states. Another aspect of the invention is the use of matrix assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometer to analysis lipoprotein complexes for the diagnosis of cardiovascular and brain diseases. Yet another aspect of the invention is a method of diagnosis of brain diseases by evaluating the characteristics of lipoprotein complexes.