1
|
Jiménez-Balado J, Habeck C, Stern Y, Eich T. The relationship between cortical thickness and white matter hyperintensities in mid to late life. Neurobiol Aging 2024; 141:129-139. [PMID: 38909430 PMCID: PMC11313098 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2024.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
White matter hyperintensities (WMH) are associated with cortical thinning. Although they are primarily detected in older participants, these lesions can appear in younger and midlife individuals. Here, we tested whether WMH are associated with cortical thinning in relatively younger (26-50 years) and relatively older (58-84) participants who were free of dementia, and how these associations are moderated by WMH localization. WMH were automatically quantified and categorized according to the localization of three classes of white matter tracts: association, commissural and projection fibers. Mediation analyses were used to infer whether differences in cortical thickness between younger and older participants were explained by WMH. Our results revealed that total WMH explained between 20.6 % and 65.5 % of the effect of age on cortical thickness in AD-signature regions including the lateral temporal lobes and supramarginal gyrus, among others. This mediation was slightly stronger for projection WMH, although it was still significant for association and commissural WMH. These results suggest that there is an interplay between vascular and AD causes of cognitive impairment that starts at younger ages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joan Jiménez-Balado
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA USA; Neurovascular Research Group, IMIM-Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Carrer del Dr. Aiguader, 88, Barcelona 08003, Spain
| | - Christian Habeck
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yaakov Stern
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Teal Eich
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA USA; Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Royse SK, Snitz BE, Hengenius JB, Huppert TJ, Roush RE, Ehrenkranz RE, Wilson JD, Bertolet M, Reese AC, Cisneros G, Potopenko K, Becker JT, Cohen AD, Shaaban CE. Unhealthy white matter connectivity, cognition, and racialization in older adults. Alzheimers Dement 2024; 20:1483-1496. [PMID: 37828730 PMCID: PMC10947965 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION White matter hyperintensities (WMH) may promote clinical Alzheimer's disease (AD) disparities between Black American (BA) and non-Hispanic White (nHW) populations. Using a novel measurement, unhealthy white matter connectivity (UWMC), we interrogated racialized group differences in associations between WMH in AD pathology-affected regions and cognition. METHODS UWMC is the proportion of white matter fibers that pass through WMH for every pair of brain regions. Individual regression models tested associations of UWMC in beta-amyloid (Aβ) or tau pathology-affected regions with cognition overall, stratified by racialized group, and with a racialized group interaction. RESULTS In 201 older adults ranging from cognitively unimpaired to AD, BA participants exhibited greater UWMC and worse cognition than nHW participants. UWMC was negatively associated with cognition in 17 and 5 Aβ- and tau-affected regions, respectively. Racialization did not modify these relationships. DISCUSSION Differential UWMC burden, not differential UWMC-and-cognition associations, may drive clinical AD disparities between racialized groups. HIGHLIGHTS Unhealthy white matter connectivity (UWMC) in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology-affected brain regions is associated with cognition. Relationships between UWMC and cognition are similar between Black American (BA) and non-Hispanic White (nHW) individuals. More UWMC may partially drive higher clinical AD burden in BA versus nHW populations. UWMC risk factors, particularly social and environmental, should be identified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K. Royse
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of RadiologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Beth E. Snitz
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - James B. Hengenius
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Theodore J. Huppert
- Department of Electrical EngineeringUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Rebecca E. Roush
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | | | - James D. Wilson
- Department of Mathematics and StatisticsUniversity of San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Marnie Bertolet
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of BiostatisticsUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | | | - Geraldine Cisneros
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Katey Potopenko
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - James T. Becker
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of BiostatisticsUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Ann D. Cohen
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Huang J, Cheng R, Liu X, Chen L, Luo T. Unraveling the link: white matter damage, gray matter atrophy and memory impairment in patients with subcortical ischemic vascular disease. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1355207. [PMID: 38362024 PMCID: PMC10867202 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1355207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Prior MRI studies have shown that patients with subcortical ischemic vascular disease (SIVD) exhibited white matter damage, gray matter atrophy and memory impairment, but the specific characteristics and interrelationships of these abnormal changes have not been fully elucidated. Materials and methods We collected the MRI data and memory scores from 29 SIVD patients with cognitive impairment (SIVD-CI), 29 SIVD patients with cognitive unimpaired (SIVD-CU) and 32 normal controls (NC). Subsequently, the thicknesses and volumes of the gray matter regions that are closely related to memory function were automatically assessed using FreeSurfer software. Then, the volume, fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo) values of white matter hyperintensity (WMH) region and normal-appearing white matter (NAWM) were obtained using SPM, DPARSF, and FSL software. Finally, the analysis of covariance, spearman correlation and mediation analysis were used to analyze data. Results Compared with NC group, patients in SIVD-CI and SIVD-CU groups showed significantly abnormal volume, FA, MD, ALFF, and ReHo values of WMH region and NAWM, as well as significantly decreased volume and thickness values of gray matter regions, mainly including thalamus, middle temporal gyrus and hippocampal subfields such as cornu ammonis (CA) 1. These abnormal changes were significantly correlated with decreased visual, auditory and working memory scores. Compared with the SIVD-CU group, the significant reductions of the left CA2/3, right amygdala, right parasubiculum and NAWM volumes and the significant increases of the MD values in the WMH region and NAWM were found in the SIVD-CI group. And the increased MD values were significantly related to working memory scores. Moreover, the decreased CA1 and thalamus volumes mediated the correlations between the abnormal microstructure indicators in WMH region and the decreased memory scores in the SIVD-CI group. Conclusion Patients with SIVD had structural and functional damages in both WMH and NAWM, along with specific gray matter atrophy, which were closely related to memory impairment, especially CA1 atrophy and thalamic atrophy. More importantly, the volumes of some temporomesial regions and the MD values of WMH regions and NAWM may be potentially helpful neuroimaging indicators for distinguishing between SIVD-CI and SIVD-CU patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Huang
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Runtian Cheng
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoshuang Liu
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Radiology, The Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Tianyou Luo
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Huang C, Zhou X, Ren M, Zhang W, Wan K, Yin J, Li M, Li Z, Zhu X, Sun Z. Altered dynamic functional network connectivity and topological organization variance in patients with white matter hyperintensities. J Neurosci Res 2023; 101:1711-1727. [PMID: 37469210 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) of presumed vascular origin are important imaging biomarkers of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). Previous studies have verified abnormal functional brain networks in CSVD. However, most of these studies rely on static functional connectivity, and only a few focus on the varying severity of the WMHs. Hence, our study primarily explored the disrupted dynamic functional network connectivity (dFNC) and topological organization variance in patients with WMHs. This study included 38 patients with moderate WMHs, 47 with severe WMHs, and 68 healthy controls (HCs). Ten independent components were chosen using independent component analysis based on resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging. The dFNC of each participant was estimated using sliding windows and k-means clustering. We identified three reproducible dFNC states. Among them, patients with WMHs had a significantly higher occurrence in the sparsely connected State 1, but a lower occurrence and shorter duration in the positive and stronger connected State 3. Regarding topological organization variance, patients with WMHs showed higher variance in local efficiency but not global efficiency compared to HCs. Among the WMH subgroups, patients with severe WMHs showed similar but more obvious alterations than those with moderate WMHs. These altered network characteristics indicated an imbalance between the functional segregation and integration of brain networks, which was correlated with global cognition, memory, executive functions, and visuospatial abilities. Our study confirmed aberrant dFNC state metrics and topological organization variance in patients with moderate-to-severe WMHs; thus, it might provide a new pathway for exploring the pathogenesis of cognitive impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chaojuan Huang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xia Zhou
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Mengmeng Ren
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ke Wan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jiabin Yin
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Mingxu Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Zhiwei Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaoqun Zhu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Zhongwu Sun
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ye Z, Mo C, Liu S, Gao S, Feng L, Zhao B, Canida T, Wu YC, Hatch KS, Ma Y, Mitchell BD, Hong L, Kochunov P, Chen C, Zhao B, Chen S, Ma T. Deciphering the causal relationship between blood pressure and regional white matter integrity: A two-sample Mendelian randomization study. J Neurosci Res 2023; 101:1471-1483. [PMID: 37330925 PMCID: PMC10444533 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Elevated arterial blood pressure (BP) is a common risk factor for cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases, but no causal relationship has been established between BP and cerebral white matter (WM) integrity. In this study, we performed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis with individual-level data by defining two nonoverlapping sets of European ancestry individuals (genetics-exposure set: N = 203,111; mean age = 56.71 years, genetics-outcome set: N = 16,156; mean age = 54.61 years) from UK Biobank to evaluate the causal effects of BP on regional WM integrity, measured by fractional anisotropy of diffusion tensor imaging. Two BP traits: systolic and diastolic blood pressure were used as exposures. Genetic variant was carefully selected as instrumental variable (IV) under the MR analysis assumptions. We existing large-scale genome-wide association study summary data for validation. The main method used was a generalized version of inverse-variance weight method while other MR methods were also applied for consistent findings. Two additional MR analyses were performed to exclude the possibility of reverse causality. We found significantly negative causal effects (FDR-adjusted p < .05; every 10 mmHg increase in BP leads to a decrease in FA value by .4% ~ 2%) of BP traits on a union set of 17 WM tracts, including brain regions related to cognitive function and memory. Our study extended the previous findings of association to causation for regional WM integrity, providing insights into the pathological processes of elevated BP that might chronically alter the brain microstructure in different regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyao Ye
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Chen Mo
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Song Liu
- School of Computer Science and Technology, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Si Gao
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Li Feng
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, College of Agriculture & Natural Resources, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Boao Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Travis Canida
- Department of Mathematics, The college of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Yu-Chia Wu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Kathryn S Hatch
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Yizhou Ma
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Braxton D. Mitchell
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - L.Elliot Hong
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Peter Kochunov
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Chixiang Chen
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Bingxin Zhao
- Department of Statistics, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Shuo Chen
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Tianzhou Ma
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Coenen M, Kuijf HJ, Huenges Wajer IMC, Duering M, Wolters FJ, Fletcher EF, Maillard PM, Barkhof F, Barnes J, Benke T, Boomsma JMF, Chen CPLH, Dal-Bianco P, Dewenter A, Enzinger C, Ewers M, Exalto LG, Franzmeier N, Groeneveld O, Hilal S, Hofer E, Koek DL, Maier AB, McCreary CR, Padilla CS, Papma JM, Paterson RW, Pijnenburg YAL, Rubinski A, Schmidt R, Schott JM, Slattery CF, Smith EE, Steketee RME, Sudre CH, van den Berg E, van der Flier WM, Venketasubramanian N, Vernooij MW, Xin X, DeCarli C, Biessels GJ, Biesbroek JM. Strategic white matter hyperintensity locations for cognitive impairment: A multicenter lesion-symptom mapping study in 3525 memory clinic patients. Alzheimers Dement 2023; 19:2420-2432. [PMID: 36504357 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Impact of white matter hyperintensities (WMH) on cognition likely depends on lesion location, but a comprehensive map of strategic locations is lacking. We aimed to identify these locations in a large multicenter study. METHODS Individual patient data (n = 3525) from 11 memory clinic cohorts were harmonized. We determined the association of WMH location with attention and executive functioning, information processing speed, language, and verbal memory performance using voxel-based and region of interest tract-based analyses. RESULTS WMH in the left and right anterior thalamic radiation, forceps major, and left inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus were significantly related to domain-specific impairment, independent of total WMH volume and atrophy. A strategic WMH score based on these tracts inversely correlated with performance in all domains. DISCUSSION The data show that the impact of WMH on cognition is location-dependent, primarily involving four strategic white matter tracts. Evaluation of WMH location may support diagnosing vascular cognitive impairment. HIGHLIGHTS We analyzed white matter hyperintensities (WMH) in 3525 memory clinic patients from 11 cohorts The impact of WMH on cognition depends on location We identified four strategic white matter tracts A single strategic WMH score was derived from these four strategic tracts The strategic WMH score was an independent determinant of four cognitive domains.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mirthe Coenen
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, UMC Utrecht, Brain Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Hugo J Kuijf
- Image Sciences Institute, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Irene M C Huenges Wajer
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, UMC Utrecht, Brain Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Experimental Psychology, Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marco Duering
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research (ISD), University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- Medical Image Analysis Center (MIAC) and Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Frank J Wolters
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Alzheimer Center Erasmus MC, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Evan F Fletcher
- Department of Neurology, University of California at Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Pauline M Maillard
- Department of Neurology, University of California at Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Frederik Barkhof
- Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Josephine Barnes
- Dementia Research Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, UCL, London, UK
| | - Thomas Benke
- Clinic of Neurology, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Jooske M F Boomsma
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Christopher P L H Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Memory, Aging and Cognition Center, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Peter Dal-Bianco
- Department of Neurology, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anna Dewenter
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research (ISD), University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Enzinger
- Division of General Neurology, Department of Neurology, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
- Division of Neuroradiology, Interventional and Vascular Radiology, Department of Radiology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Michael Ewers
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research (ISD), University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Lieza G Exalto
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, UMC Utrecht, Brain Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Image Sciences Institute, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Nicolai Franzmeier
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research (ISD), University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Onno Groeneveld
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, UMC Utrecht, Brain Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Isala MS Centre, Isala Hospital, Meppel, The Netherlands
| | - Saima Hilal
- Department of Pharmacology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Memory, Aging and Cognition Center, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Edith Hofer
- Division of Neurogeriatrics, Department of Neurology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Institute for Medical Informatics, Statistics and Documentation, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Dineke L Koek
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea B Maier
- Memory, Aging and Cognition Center, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Cheryl R McCreary
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences and Radiology and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Catarina S Padilla
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, UMC Utrecht, Brain Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Janne M Papma
- Alzheimer Center Erasmus MC, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ross W Paterson
- Dementia Research Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, UCL, London, UK
| | - Yolande A L Pijnenburg
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anna Rubinski
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research (ISD), University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Reinhold Schmidt
- Division of Neurogeriatrics, Department of Neurology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Jonathan M Schott
- Dementia Research Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, UCL, London, UK
| | - Catherine F Slattery
- Dementia Research Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, UCL, London, UK
| | - Eric E Smith
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences and Radiology and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Rebecca M E Steketee
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Alzheimer Center Erasmus MC, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carole H Sudre
- MRC Unit for Lifelong Health and Ageing, the Centre for Medical Image Computing, UCL, London, UK
| | - Esther van den Berg
- Alzheimer Center Erasmus MC, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wiesje M van der Flier
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Narayanaswamy Venketasubramanian
- Memory, Aging and Cognition Center, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- Raffles Neuroscience Center, Raffles Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Meike W Vernooij
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Alzheimer Center Erasmus MC, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Xu Xin
- Department of Pharmacology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Memory, Aging and Cognition Center, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Charles DeCarli
- Department of Neurology, University of California at Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Geert Jan Biessels
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, UMC Utrecht, Brain Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J Matthijs Biesbroek
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, UMC Utrecht, Brain Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Diakonessenhuis Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Rizvi B, Sathishkumar M, Kim S, Márquez F, Granger SJ, Larson MS, Miranda BA, Hollearn MK, McMillan L, Nan B, Tustison NJ, Lao PJ, Brickman AM, Greenia D, Corrada MM, Kawas CH, Yassa MA. Posterior white matter hyperintensities are associated with reduced medial temporal lobe subregional integrity and long-term memory in older adults. Neuroimage Clin 2022; 37:103308. [PMID: 36586358 PMCID: PMC9830310 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2022.103308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
White matter hyperintensities are a marker of small vessel cerebrovascular disease that are strongly related to cognition in older adults. Similarly, medial temporal lobe atrophy is well-documented in aging and Alzheimer's disease and is associated with memory decline. Here, we assessed the relationship between lobar white matter hyperintensities, medial temporal lobe subregional volumes, and hippocampal memory in older adults. We collected MRI scans in a sample of 139 older adults without dementia (88 females, mean age (SD) = 76.95 (10.61)). Participants were administered the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT). Regression analyses tested for associations among medial temporal lobe subregional volumes, regional white matter hyperintensities and memory, while adjusting for age, sex, and education and correcting for multiple comparisons. Increased occipital white matter hyperintensities were related to worse RAVLT delayed recall performance, and to reduced CA1, dentate gyrus, perirhinal cortex (Brodmann area 36), and parahippocampal cortex volumes. These medial temporal lobe subregional volumes were related to delayed recall performance. The association of occipital white matter hyperintensities with delayed recall performance was fully mediated statistically only by perirhinal cortex volume. These results suggest that white matter hyperintensities may be associated with memory decline through their impact on medial temporal lobe atrophy. These findings provide new insights into the role of vascular pathologies in memory loss in older adults and suggest that future studies should further examine the neural mechanisms of these relationships in longitudinal samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Batool Rizvi
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Mithra Sathishkumar
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Soyun Kim
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Freddie Márquez
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Steven J Granger
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Myra S Larson
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Blake A Miranda
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Martina K Hollearn
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Liv McMillan
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Bin Nan
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Statistics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Nicholas J Tustison
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Patrick J Lao
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Adam M Brickman
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dana Greenia
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Maria M Corrada
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Claudia H Kawas
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Michael A Yassa
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Moody JF, Dean DC, Kecskemeti SR, Blennow K, Zetterberg H, Kollmorgen G, Suridjan I, Wild N, Carlsson CM, Johnson SC, Alexander AL, Bendlin BB. Associations between diffusion MRI microstructure and cerebrospinal fluid markers of Alzheimer's disease pathology and neurodegeneration along the Alzheimer's disease continuum. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2022; 14:e12381. [PMID: 36479018 PMCID: PMC9720004 DOI: 10.1002/dad2.12381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
Introduction White matter (WM) degeneration is a critical component of early Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathophysiology. Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) models, including diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI), and mean apparent propagator MRI (MAP-MRI), have the potential to identify early neurodegenerative WM changes associated with AD. Methods We imaged 213 (198 cognitively unimpaired) aging adults with DWI and used tract-based spatial statistics to compare 15 DWI metrics of WM microstructure to 9 cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) markers of AD pathology and neurodegeneration treated as continuous variables. Results We found widespread WM injury in AD, as indexed by robust associations between DWI metrics and CSF biomarkers. MAP-MRI had more spatially diffuse relationships with Aβ42/40 and pTau, compared with NODDI and DTI. Discussion Our results suggest that WM degeneration may be more pervasive in AD than is commonly appreciated and that innovative DWI models such as MAP-MRI may provide clinically viable biomarkers of AD-related neurodegeneration in the earliest stages of AD progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason F. Moody
- Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research CenterUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
| | - Douglas C. Dean
- Waisman CenterUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
- Department of Medical PhysicsUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
| | | | - Kaj Blennow
- Department of Psychiatry and NeurochemistryInstitute of Neuroscience and PhysiologySahlgrenska AcademyUniversity of GothenburgMölndalSweden
- Clinical Neurochemistry LaboratorySahlgrenska University HospitalMölndalSweden
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Department of Psychiatry and NeurochemistryInstitute of Neuroscience and PhysiologySahlgrenska AcademyUniversity of GothenburgMölndalSweden
- Clinical Neurochemistry LaboratorySahlgrenska University HospitalMölndalSweden
- Department of Neurodegenerative DiseaseUCL Institute of NeurologyLondonUK
- UK Dementia Research InstituteUCLLondonUK
- Hong Kong Center for Neurodegenerative DiseasesHong KongChina
| | | | | | | | - Cynthia M. Carlsson
- Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research CenterUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
| | - Sterling C. Johnson
- Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research CenterUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical CenterMiddleton Memorial VA HospitalMadisonWisconsinUSA
| | - Andrew L. Alexander
- Waisman CenterUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
- Department of Medical PhysicsUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
| | - Barbara B. Bendlin
- Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research CenterUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Frank D, Garo-Pascual M, Velasquez PAR, Frades B, Peled N, Zhang L, Strange BA. Brain structure and episodic learning rate in cognitively healthy ageing. Neuroimage 2022; 263:119630. [PMID: 36113738 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2022.119630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Memory normally declines with ageing and these age-related cognitive changes are associated with changes in brain structure. Episodic memory retrieval has been widely studied during ageing, whereas learning has received less attention. Here we examined the neural correlates of episodic learning rate in ageing. Our study sample consisted of 982 cognitively healthy female and male older participants from the Vallecas Project cohort, without a clinical diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or dementia. The learning rate across the three consecutive recall trials of the verbal memory task (Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test) recall trials was used as a predictor of grey matter (GM) using voxel-based morphometry, and WM microstructure using tract-based spatial statistics on fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) measures. Immediate Recall improved by 1.4 items per trial on average, and this episodic learning rate was faster in women and negatively associated with age. Structurally, hippocampal and anterior thalamic GM volume correlated positively with learning rate. Learning also correlated with the integrity of WM microstructure (high FA and low MD) in an extensive network of tracts including bilateral anterior thalamic radiation, fornix, and long-range tracts. These results suggest that episodic learning rate is associated with key anatomical structures for memory functioning, motivating further exploration of the differential diagnostic properties between episodic learning rate and retrieval in ageing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Darya Frank
- Laboratory for Clinical Neuroscience, Centro de Tecnología Biomédica, CTB, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid 28223, Spain.
| | - Marta Garo-Pascual
- Laboratory for Clinical Neuroscience, Centro de Tecnología Biomédica, CTB, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid 28223, Spain; Alzheimer's Disease Research Unit, CIEN Foundation, Queen Sofia Foundation Alzheimer Center, Madrid 28031, Spain; PhD Program in Neuroscience, Autonoma de Madrid University, Madrid 28049, Spain.
| | - Pablo Alejandro Reyes Velasquez
- Laboratory for Clinical Neuroscience, Centro de Tecnología Biomédica, CTB, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid 28223, Spain
| | - Belén Frades
- Alzheimer's Disease Research Unit, CIEN Foundation, Queen Sofia Foundation Alzheimer Center, Madrid 28031, Spain
| | - Noam Peled
- Department of Radiology, Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Linda Zhang
- Alzheimer's Disease Research Unit, CIEN Foundation, Queen Sofia Foundation Alzheimer Center, Madrid 28031, Spain
| | - Bryan A Strange
- Laboratory for Clinical Neuroscience, Centro de Tecnología Biomédica, CTB, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid 28223, Spain; Alzheimer's Disease Research Unit, CIEN Foundation, Queen Sofia Foundation Alzheimer Center, Madrid 28031, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ottoy J, Ozzoude M, Zukotynski K, Adamo S, Scott C, Gaudet V, Ramirez J, Swardfager W, Cogo-Moreira H, Lam B, Bhan A, Mojiri P, Kang MS, Rabin JS, Kiss A, Strother S, Bocti C, Borrie M, Chertkow H, Frayne R, Hsiung R, Laforce RJ, Noseworthy MD, Prato FS, Sahlas DJ, Smith EE, Kuo PH, Sossi V, Thiel A, Soucy JP, Tardif JC, Black SE, Goubran M. Vascular burden and cognition: Mediating roles of neurodegeneration and amyloid PET. Alzheimers Dement 2022; 19:1503-1517. [PMID: 36047604 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
It remains unclear to what extent cerebrovascular burden relates to amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition, neurodegeneration, and cognitive dysfunction in mixed disease populations with small vessel disease and Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. In 120 subjects, we investigated the association of vascular burden (white matter hyperintensity [WMH] volumes) with cognition. Using mediation analyses, we tested the indirect effects of WMH on cognition via Aβ deposition (18 F-AV45 positron emission tomography [PET]) and neurodegeneration (cortical thickness or 18 F fluorodeoxyglucose PET) in AD signature regions. We observed that increased total WMH volume was associated with poorer performance in all tested cognitive domains, with the strongest effects observed for semantic fluency. These relationships were mediated mainly via cortical thinning, particularly of the temporal lobe, and to a lesser extent serially mediated via Aβ and cortical thinning of AD signature regions. WMH volumes differentially impacted cognition depending on lobar location and Aβ status. In summary, our study suggests mainly an amyloid-independent pathway in which vascular burden affects cognitive function via localized neurodegeneration. HIGHLIGHTS: Alzheimer's disease often co-exists with vascular pathology. We studied a unique cohort enriched for high white matter hyperintensities (WMH). High WMH related to cognitive impairment of semantic fluency and executive function. This relationship was mediated via temporo-parietal atrophy rather than metabolism. This relationship was, to lesser extent, serially mediated via amyloid beta and atrophy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie Ottoy
- LC Campbell Cognitive Neurology Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Miracle Ozzoude
- LC Campbell Cognitive Neurology Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Katherine Zukotynski
- LC Campbell Cognitive Neurology Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Departments of Medicine and Radiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medical Imaging, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sabrina Adamo
- LC Campbell Cognitive Neurology Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher Scott
- LC Campbell Cognitive Neurology Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vincent Gaudet
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joel Ramirez
- LC Campbell Cognitive Neurology Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Walter Swardfager
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hugo Cogo-Moreira
- LC Campbell Cognitive Neurology Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Education, ICT and Learning, Østfold University College, Halden, Norway
| | - Benjamin Lam
- Department of Medicine (Division of Neurology), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aparna Bhan
- LC Campbell Cognitive Neurology Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Parisa Mojiri
- LC Campbell Cognitive Neurology Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Min Su Kang
- LC Campbell Cognitive Neurology Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Physical Sciences Platform, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer S Rabin
- Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Harquail Centre for Neuromodulation, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alex Kiss
- Department of Research Design and Biostatistics, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephen Strother
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,The Rotman Research Institute Baycrest, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christian Bocti
- Département de Médecine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michael Borrie
- Lawson Health Research Institute, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Howard Chertkow
- Jewish General Hospital and Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Richard Frayne
- Departments of Radiology and Clinical Neuroscience, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Robin Hsiung
- Physics and Astronomy Department and DM Center for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Robert Jr Laforce
- Clinique Interdisciplinaire de Mémoire, Département des Sciences Neurologiques, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michael D Noseworthy
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Frank S Prato
- Lawson Health Research Institute, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Eric E Smith
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Phillip H Kuo
- Department of Medical Imaging, Medicine, and Biomedical Engineering, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Vesna Sossi
- Physics and Astronomy Department and DM Center for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alexander Thiel
- Jewish General Hospital and Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jean-Paul Soucy
- Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jean-Claude Tardif
- Montreal Heart Institute, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sandra E Black
- LC Campbell Cognitive Neurology Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medicine (Division of Neurology), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Dr. Sandra Black Centre for Brain Resilience and Recovery, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maged Goubran
- LC Campbell Cognitive Neurology Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Physical Sciences Platform, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Mock N, Balzer C, Gutbrod K, De Haan B, Jäncke L, Ettlin T, Trost W. Lesion-symptom mapping corroborates lateralization of verbal and nonverbal memory processes and identifies distributed brain networks responsible for memory dysfunction. Cortex 2022; 153:178-193. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cortex.2022.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
12
|
Jaywant A, Dunlop K, Victoria LW, Oberlin L, Lynch CJ, Respino M, Kuceyeski A, Scult M, Hoptman MJ, Liston C, O’Dell MW, Alexopoulos GS, Perlis RH, Gunning FM. Estimated Regional White Matter Hyperintensity Burden, Resting State Functional Connectivity, and Cognitive Functions in Older Adults. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2022; 30:269-280. [PMID: 34412936 PMCID: PMC8799753 DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2021.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE White matter hyperintensities (WMH) are linked to deficits in cognitive functioning, including cognitive control and memory; however, the structural, and functional mechanisms are largely unknown. We investigated the relationship between estimated regional disruptions to white matter fiber tracts from WMH, resting state functional connectivity (RSFC), and cognitive functions in older adults. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Community. PARTICIPANTS Fifty-eight cognitively-healthy older adults. MEASUREMENTS Tasks of cognitive control and memory, structural MRI, and resting state fMRI. We estimated the disruption to white matter fiber tracts from WMH and its impact on gray matter regions in the cortical and subcortical frontoparietal network, default mode network, and ventral attention network by overlaying each subject's WMH mask on a normative tractogram dataset. We calculated RSFC between nodes in those same networks. We evaluated the interaction of regional WMH burden and RSFC in predicting cognitive control and memory. RESULTS The interaction of estimated regional WMH burden and RSFC in cortico-striatal regions of the default mode network and frontoparietal network was associated with delayed recall. Models predicting working memory, cognitive inhibition, and set-shifting were not significant. CONCLUSION Findings highlight the role of network-level structural and functional alterations in resting state networks that are related to WMH and impact memory in older adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Jaywant
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine,Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine
| | - Katharine Dunlop
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine,Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine
| | - Lindsay W. Victoria
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine,Weill Cornell Institute of Geriatric Psychiatry
| | - Lauren Oberlin
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine,Weill Cornell Institute of Geriatric Psychiatry
| | - Charles J. Lynch
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine,Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine
| | - Matteo Respino
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine,Weill Cornell Institute of Geriatric Psychiatry
| | | | | | - Matthew J. Hoptman
- Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research,Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine
| | - Conor Liston
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine,Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine
| | | | - George S. Alexopoulos
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine,Weill Cornell Institute of Geriatric Psychiatry
| | - Roy H. Perlis
- Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts General Hospital
| | - Faith M. Gunning
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine,Weill Cornell Institute of Geriatric Psychiatry
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Dadar M, Manera AL, Ducharme S, Collins DL. White matter hyperintensities are associated with grey matter atrophy and cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia. Neurobiol Aging 2021; 111:54-63. [PMID: 34968832 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2021.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are commonly assumed to represent non-specific cerebrovascular disease comorbid to neurodegenerative processes, rather than playing a synergistic role. We compared the impact of WMHs on grey matter (GM) atrophy and cognition in normal aging (n = 571), mild cognitive impairment (MCI, n = 551), Alzheimer's dementia (AD, n = 212), fronto-temporal dementia (FTD, n = 125), and Parkinson's disease (PD, n = 271). Longitudinal data were obtained from ADNI, FTLDNI, and PPMI datasets. Mixed-effects models were used to compare WMHs and GM atrophy between patients and controls and assess the impact of WMHs on GM atrophy and cognition. MCI, AD, and FTD patients had significantly higher WMH loads than controls. WMHs were related to GM atrophy in insular and parieto-occipital regions in MCI/AD, and frontal regions and basal ganglia in FTD. In addition, WMHs contributed to more severe cognitive deficits in AD and FTD compared to controls, whereas their impact in MCI and PD was not significantly different from controls. These results suggest potential synergistic effects between WMHs and proteinopathies in the neurodegenerative process in MCI, AD and FTD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Dadar
- NeuroImaging and Surgical Tools Laboratory, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | - Ana Laura Manera
- NeuroImaging and Surgical Tools Laboratory, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Simon Ducharme
- McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Mental Health University Institute and Douglas Research Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - D Louis Collins
- NeuroImaging and Surgical Tools Laboratory, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hoagey DA, Lazarus LTT, Rodrigue KM, Kennedy KM. The effect of vascular health factors on white matter microstructure mediates age-related differences in executive function performance. Cortex 2021; 141:403-420. [PMID: 34130048 PMCID: PMC8319097 DOI: 10.1016/j.cortex.2021.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Even within healthy aging, vascular risk factors can detrimentally influence cognition, with executive functions (EF) particularly vulnerable. Fronto-parietal white matter (WM) connectivity in part, supports EF and may be particularly sensitive to vascular risk. Here, we utilized structural equation modeling in 184 healthy adults (aged 20-94 years of age) to test the hypotheses that: 1) fronto-parietal WM microstructure mediates age effects on EF; 2) higher blood pressure (BP) and white matter hyperintensity (WMH) burden influences this association. All participants underwent comprehensive cognitive and neuropsychological testing including tests of processing speed, executive function (with a focus on tasks that require switching and inhibition) and completed an MRI scanning session that included FLAIR imaging for semi-automated quantification of white matter hyperintensity burden and diffusion-weighted imaging for tractography. Structural equation models were specified with age (as a continuous variable) and blood pressure predicting within-tract WMH burden and fractional anisotropy predicting executive function and processing speed. Results indicated that fronto-parietal white matter of the genu of the corpus collosum, superior longitudinal fasciculus, and the inferior frontal occipital fasciculus (but not cortico-spinal tract) mediated the association between age and EF. Additionally, increased systolic blood pressure and white matter hyperintensity burden within these white matter tracts contribute to worsening white matter health and are important factors underlying age-brain-behavior associations. These findings suggest that aging brings about increases in both BP and WMH burden, which may be involved in the degradation of white matter connectivity and in turn, negatively impact executive functions as we age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David A Hoagey
- The University of Texas at Dallas, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Center for Vital Longevity, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Linh T T Lazarus
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Karen M Rodrigue
- The University of Texas at Dallas, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Center for Vital Longevity, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Kristen M Kennedy
- The University of Texas at Dallas, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Center for Vital Longevity, Dallas, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Garnier-Crussard A, Bougacha S, Wirth M, Dautricourt S, Sherif S, Landeau B, Gonneaud J, De Flores R, de la Sayette V, Vivien D, Krolak-Salmon P, Chételat G. White matter hyperintensity topography in Alzheimer's disease and links to cognition. Alzheimers Dement 2021; 18:422-433. [PMID: 34322985 PMCID: PMC9292254 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Introduction White matter hyperintensities (WMH) are often described in Alzheimer's disease (AD), but their topography and specific relationships with cognition remain unclear. Methods Regional WMH were estimated in 54 cognitively impaired amyloid beta–positive AD (Aβpos‐AD), compared to 40 cognitively unimpaired amyloid beta–negative older controls (Aβneg‐controls) matched for vascular risk factors. The cross‐sectional association between regional WMH volume and cognition was assessed within each group, controlling for cerebral amyloid burden, global cortical atrophy, and hippocampal atrophy. Results WMH volume was larger in Aβpos‐AD compared to Aβneg‐controls in all regions, with the greatest changes in the splenium of the corpus callosum (S‐CC). In Aβpos‐AD patients, larger total and regional WMH volume, especially in the S‐CC, was strongly associated with decreased cognition. Discussion WMH specifically contribute to lower cognition in AD, independently from amyloid deposition and atrophy. This study emphasizes the clinical relevance of WMH in AD, especially posterior WMH, and most notably S‐CC WMH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Garnier-Crussard
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND "Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders,", Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, Caen, France.,Clinical and Research Memory Center of Lyon, Lyon Institute For Elderly, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,University of Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Salma Bougacha
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND "Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders,", Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, Caen, France
| | - Miranka Wirth
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Dresden, Germany
| | - Sophie Dautricourt
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND "Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders,", Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, Caen, France.,Department of Neurology, CHU de Caen, Caen, France
| | - Siya Sherif
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND "Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders,", Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, Caen, France
| | - Brigitte Landeau
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND "Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders,", Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, Caen, France
| | - Julie Gonneaud
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND "Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders,", Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, Caen, France
| | - Robin De Flores
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND "Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders,", Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, Caen, France
| | - Vincent de la Sayette
- Department of Neurology, CHU de Caen, Caen, France.,Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, PSL Université, EPHE, INSERM, U1077, CHU de Caen, GIP Cyceron, NIMH, Caen, France
| | - Denis Vivien
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND "Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders,", Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, Caen, France.,Department of Clinical Research, CHU de Caen, Caen, France
| | - Pierre Krolak-Salmon
- Clinical and Research Memory Center of Lyon, Lyon Institute For Elderly, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,University of Lyon, Lyon, France.,Neuroscience Research Centre of Lyon, INSERM 1048, CNRS 5292, Lyon, France
| | - Gaël Chételat
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND "Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders,", Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, Caen, France
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chesebro AG, Melgarejo JD, Leendertz R, Igwe KC, Lao PJ, Laing KK, Rizvi B, Budge M, Meier IB, Calmon G, Lee JH, Maestre G, Brickman AM. Author Response: White Matter Hyperintensities Mediate the Association of Nocturnal Blood Pressure With Cognition. Neurology 2021; 97:46. [PMID: 34226286 PMCID: PMC9049299 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000012217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
|
17
|
O'Shea DM, Thomas KR, Asken B, Lee AK, Davis JD, Malloy PF, Salloway SP, Correia S. Adding cognition to AT(N) models improves prediction of cognitive and functional decline. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2021; 13:e12174. [PMID: 33816757 PMCID: PMC8012408 DOI: 10.1002/dad2.12174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study sought to determine whether adding cognition to a model with Alzheimer's disease biomarkers based on the amyloid, tau, and neurodegeneration/neuronal injury-AT(N)-biomarker framework predicts rates of cognitive and functional decline in older adults without dementia. METHODS The study included 465 participants who completed amyloid positron emission tomography, cerebrospinal fluid phosphorylated tau, structural magnetic resonance imaging, and serial neuropsychological testing. Using the AT(N) framework and a newly validated cognitive metric as the independent variables, we used linear mixed effects models to examine a 4-year rate of change in cognitive and functional measures. RESULTS The inclusion of baseline cognitive status improved model fit in predicting rate of decline in outcomes above and beyond biomarker variables. Specifically, those with worse cognitive functioning at baseline had faster rates of memory and functional decline over a 4-year period, even when accounting for AT(N). DISCUSSION Including a newly validated measure of baseline cognition may improve clinical prognosis in non-demented older adults beyond the use of AT(N) biomarkers alone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deirdre M. O'Shea
- Department of Psychiatry and Human BehaviorAlpert Medical School of Brown UniversityProvidenceRhode IslandUSA
| | - Kelsey R. Thomas
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare SystemUniversity of California San DiegoSan DiegoCaliforniaUSA
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of California, San Diego, La JollaCAUSA
| | - Breton Asken
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Athene K.W. Lee
- Department of Psychiatry and Human BehaviorAlpert Medical School of Brown UniversityProvidenceRhode IslandUSA
| | - Jennifer D. Davis
- Department of Psychiatry and Human BehaviorAlpert Medical School of Brown UniversityProvidenceRhode IslandUSA
| | - Paul F. Malloy
- Department of Psychiatry and Human BehaviorAlpert Medical School of Brown UniversityProvidenceRhode IslandUSA
| | - Stephen P. Salloway
- Department of Psychiatry and Human BehaviorAlpert Medical School of Brown UniversityProvidenceRhode IslandUSA
| | - Stephen Correia
- Department of Psychiatry and Human BehaviorAlpert Medical School of Brown UniversityProvidenceRhode IslandUSA
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wang ML, Yu MM, Li WB, Li YH. Longitudinal Association between White Matter Hyperintensities and White Matter Beta-Amyloid Deposition in Cognitively Unimpaired Elderly. Curr Alzheimer Res 2021; 18:8-13. [PMID: 33761854 DOI: 10.2174/1567205018666210324125116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND White matter (WM) beta-amyloid uptake has been used as a reference region to calculate the cortical standard uptake value ratio (SUVr). However, white matter hyperintensities (WMH) may have an influence on WM beta-amyloid uptake. Our study aimed to investigate the associations between WMH and WM beta-amyloid deposition in cognitively unimpaired elderly. METHODS Data from 83 cognitively unimpaired individuals in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) dataset were analyzed. All participants had complete baseline and four-year follow-up information about WMH volume, WM 18F-AV-45 SUVr, and cognitive function, including ADNI-Memory (ADNI-Mem) and ADNI-Executive function (ADNI-EF) scores. Cross-sectional and longitudinal linear regression analyses were used to determine the associations between WMH and WM SUVr and cognitive measures. RESULTS Lower WM 18F-AV-45 SUVr at baseline was associated with younger age (β=0.01, P=0.037) and larger WMH volume (β=-0.049, P=0.048). The longitudinal analysis found an annual increase in WM 18F-AV-45 SUVr was associated with an annual decrease in WMH volume (β=-0.016, P=0.041). An annual decrease in the ADNI-Mem score was associated with an annual increase in WMH volume (β=-0.070, P=0.001), an annual decrease in WM 18F-AV-45 SUVr (β=0.559, P=0.030), and fewer years of education (β=0.011, P=0.044). There was no significant association between WM 18F-AV-45 SUVr and ADNI-EF (P>0.05). CONCLUSION Reduced beta-amyloid deposition in WM was associated with higher WMH load and memory decline in cognitively unimpaired elderly. WMH volume should be considered when WM 18F-AV-45 SUVr is used as a reference for evaluating cortical 18F-AV-45 SUVr.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Liang Wang
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233,China
| | - Meng-Meng Yu
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233,China
| | - Wen-Bin Li
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233,China
| | - Yue-Hua Li
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233,China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Edde M, Theaud G, Rheault F, Dilharreguy B, Helmer C, Dartigues JF, Amieva H, Allard M, Descoteaux M, Catheline G. Free water: A marker of age-related modifications of the cingulum white matter and its association with cognitive decline. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0242696. [PMID: 33216815 PMCID: PMC7678997 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffusion MRI is extensively used to investigate changes in white matter microstructure. However, diffusion measures within white matter tissue can be affected by partial volume effects due to cerebrospinal fluid and white matter hyperintensities, especially in the aging brain. In previous aging studies, the cingulum bundle that plays a central role in the architecture of the brain networks supporting cognitive functions has been associated with cognitive deficits. However, most of these studies did not consider the partial volume effects on diffusion measures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of free water elimination on diffusion measures of the cingulum in a group of 68 healthy elderly individuals. We first determined the effect of free water elimination on conventional DTI measures and then examined the effect of free water elimination on verbal fluency performance over 12 years. The cingulum bundle was reconstructed with a tractography pipeline including a white matter hyperintensities mask to limit the negative impact of hyperintensities on fiber tracking algorithms. We observed that free water elimination increased the ability of conventional DTI measures to detect associations between tissue diffusion measures of the cingulum and changes in verbal fluency in older individuals. Moreover, free water content and mean diffusivity measured along the cingulum were independently associated with changes in verbal fluency. This suggests that both tissue modifications and an increase in interstitial isotropic water would contribute to cognitive decline. These observations reinforce the importance of using free water elimination when studying brain aging and indicate that free water itself could be a relevant marker for age-related cingulum white matter modifications and cognitive decline.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manon Edde
- EPHE, PSL, Bordeaux, France
- CNRS, INCIA, UMR 5287, Bordeaux, France
| | - Guillaume Theaud
- Sherbrooke Connectivity Imaging Lab, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - François Rheault
- Sherbrooke Connectivity Imaging Lab, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | | | - Catherine Helmer
- Université de Bordeaux, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, UMR 1219, Bordeaux, France
| | - Jean-François Dartigues
- Université de Bordeaux, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, UMR 1219, Bordeaux, France
- CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Hélène Amieva
- Université de Bordeaux, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, UMR 1219, Bordeaux, France
| | - Michèle Allard
- EPHE, PSL, Bordeaux, France
- CNRS, INCIA, UMR 5287, Bordeaux, France
- CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Maxime Descoteaux
- Sherbrooke Connectivity Imaging Lab, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Gwénaëlle Catheline
- EPHE, PSL, Bordeaux, France
- CNRS, INCIA, UMR 5287, Bordeaux, France
- Université de Bordeaux, INCIA, UMR 5287, Bordeaux, France
| |
Collapse
|