This research investigates the role of the glymphatic system (i.e., the brain’s waste clearance mechanism) in cognitive decline, sleep disturbances, and biomarkers in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Using data from the UK Biobank, it explores the potential link between glymphatic dysfunction, which may hinder the clearance of neurotoxic proteins such as beta-amyloid and tau, and cognitive impairment, as well as changes in cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers.
In AD, the efficiency of the glymphatic system appears to decline, potentially contributing to the accumulation of harmful proteins that accelerate cognitive deterioration. The study examines how glymphatic dysfunction relates to cognitive performance, sleep quality, and biomarkers (e.g., beta-amyloid, tau, AQP4, and markers of neuroinflammation). Given the prevalence of sleep disturbances in AD, it also investigates how altered sleep patterns affect glymphatic function and overall brain health.
New insights are expected into the relationship between glymphatic dysfunction, sleep, and biomarkers in AD. Novel variables will be developed to assess glymphatic activity using available neuroimaging and fluid biomarker data, alongside a composite measure of sleep quality linked to glymphatic function. The analysis will explore how these variables are associated with cognitive performance over time. These findings could identify early indicators of AD, offering potential biomarkers for diagnosis and monitoring disease progression. Ultimately, the results may inform the development of innovative diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies to preserve cognitive function, improve sleep, and promote brain health in individuals with AD.