Dr. B.M. Tijms
ZonMw
The Netherlands
Brain connectivity: the missing link between amyloid and clinical symptoms
ZonMw
133,769
01/11/15
2.0
Alzheimer's disease & other dementias
Alzheimers disease | brain networks | disease mechanism modelling | longitudinal study | magnetic resonance imaging | multimodal imaging
Accumulation of amyloid is among the first changes leading to Alzheimers disease (AD). But, amyloid accumulation does not
predict cognitive decline. This has hampered the search for a cure. A novel view is needed to understand how and why brain areas become dysfunctional. connectivity can cause unexpected, widespread disruptions in brain function. Brain connectivity can be measured in vivo with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques. Other labs and I have found that brain connectivity deteriorates in Alzheimers disease, and that these disruptions predict cognitive decline cross-sectionally. Thus, brain connectivity shows promise to track disease progression.
My aim is to model decline and improvement of brain connectivity in Alzheimers disease. I have two key objectives: 1. Model the longitudinal relationship of decline in brain connectivity and cognitive decline. 2. Predict future atrophy with brain
connectivity. Brain connectivity will be measured in single-subjects grey matter structural MRI, with a technique that I have invented during my PhD in the United Kingdom.
The conceivable outcomes of this study are: 1. brain connectivity as a marker that can track disease progression in AD, 2. prediction model for future atrophy.
Being able to predict when a patient will become demented is essential for treatment development. Prognostic information can be used to create more homogenous groups and so maximise treatment effects. Prognostic information will also help patients
and caregivers with disease management planning, thereby improving their quality of life.