This study aims to integrate the existing database of our research team with the extensive resources of the Biobank to investigate the underlying mechanisms of interaction between the glymphatic system (GS) and cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). The research will employ a range of advanced neuroimaging techniques, including but not limited to diffusion tensor image analysis along the perivascular space index, global blood-oxygen-level-dependent and cerebrospinal fluid signal coupling, to quantify the functional status of the brain’s GS and examine its association with cognitive impairment in CSVD patients. In addition, we will explore potential biomarkers of GS dysfunction, with the aim of identifying their utility in the early diagnosis and prognostic assessment of CSVD.
Scientific rationale: CSVD is highly prevalent and represents a significant risk factor for cognitive decline, poor functional outcomes, recurrent strokes, and increased mortality. Although the precise pathological mechanisms are not fully understood, research suggests that CSVD is likely influenced by factors such as atherosclerosis, amyloid angiopathy, genetic predispositions, blood-brain barrier disruption, and endothelial dysfunction. Recent neuroimaging studies have suggested that dysfunction of the GS may play a critical role in the pathogenesis of CSVD. The GS is essential for the clearance of metabolic waste products from the brain and the maintenance of neurological homeostasis. Impairments in this system may result in the accumulation of metabolic byproducts, thereby disrupting brain function. In light of this, the proposed study the proposed study seeks to integrate both domestic and international databases to investigate the interaction between the GS and CSVD in greater depth, which may offer novel insights and strategies for the early diagnosis, treatment, and prognostic evaluation of CSVD.
Project duration: This project duration is estimated for 3 years.
