AI Insight
Recent molecular profiling studies have identified vascular alterations in Alzheimer's disease at the molecular level, but these studies have not established whether these changes actually contribute to disease pathology. The authors argue that longitudinal research is necessary to connect observed molecular and structural vascular changes to functional outcomes including vascular mechanics, blood flow dynamics, and how well brain tissue receives oxygen and nutrients.
Why it matters
Understanding the causal relationship between vascular changes and Alzheimer's pathology could reveal new therapeutic targets for disease intervention. Establishing functional links between molecular changes and actual blood flow problems in the brain may help explain why some patients develop Alzheimer's disease and guide prevention strategies.
Understand the Science
by Thomas S. Lewis, Jessica Wagner, Jonas J. Neher
Molecular profiling studies have mapped vascular alterations in Alzheimer’s disease, but have not proven a role for them in pathology. Longitudinal studies are needed to link molecular and structural changes to vascular mechanics, hemodynamics, and tissue perfusion.
Molecular profiling studies have mapped vascular alterations in Alzheimer’s disease, but have not proven a role for them in pathology. This Perspective argues for longitudinal studies to link molecular and structural changes to vascular mechanics, hemodynamics and tissue perfusion.
Source: Alzheimer’s disease research must connect vascular molecular phenotypes with physiology