Project Overview
Background: Mixed dementia is the most common form of dementia. It occurs when Alzheimer’s disease (AD) combines with vascular disease, affecting both the blood vessels and the immune function in our brain. As this happens, memory difficulties develop. However, typical AD research has neglected the blood vessel health and associated immune responses (inflammation). This limits our ability to detect and treat appropriately.
Objectives: First, we will compare inflammation markers in persons with AD who also have vascularrelated brain issues to those who do not. Second, we will test if we can group patients based on similarity in patterns of inflammation and vascular changes, which is relevant for more personalized intervention. Third, we will create a combined score of inflammation and vascular markers to help us understand its impact on cognitive health.
Methods: We will use brain scans and blood samples of 409 participants in different stages of disease. We will analyze this data using an artificial intelligence (AI) model to predict how and when each of these inflammation and vascular markers start to change. Our method differs from previous studies by using AI and more advanced models/markers to get a clearer picture.
Expected outcomes: Controlling vascular changes and vascular-associated immune responses could delay dementia from progressing. We will determine how and when these processes manifest in the brain. This helps with identifying individuals who could benefit from these treatments.
Impact: AD is highly complex, with not only toxic proteins like amyloid and tau playing a role but also factors like health of our blood vessels and immune system. This project aims to clarify how and when these vascular and immune changes contribute to mixed dementia. By understanding these factors better, we hope to improve predictions of who might benefit from treatments targeting blood vessel health, leading to more personalized care.
Partners and Donors
Tavares Foundation
Canada Gives
