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Endothelial dysfunction associated with mild cognitive impairment in elderly population

Gianluigi Vendemiale1, Antonino D Romano, Mariangela Dagostino

  • 1Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Geriatrics, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy. g.vendemiale@unifg.it

Aging Clinical and Experimental Research
|June 7, 2013
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Endothelial dysfunction, measured by flow-mediated dilation (FMD), is linked to mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This suggests vascular factors contribute to cognitive decline, highlighting a need for targeted therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Vascular Biology
  • Geriatrics

Background:

  • Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a growing concern in aging populations.
  • The role of vascular health, specifically endothelial function, in MCI pathogenesis requires further investigation.
  • Endothelial dysfunction may precede or contribute to cognitive decline.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between endothelial dysfunction, assessed by flow-mediated dilation (FMD), and mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
  • To determine if endothelial dysfunction is present in individuals with MCI.
  • To explore the implication of vascular factors in the development of MCI.

Main Methods:

  • Cross-sectional study of 67 participants (34 MCI, 37 controls) aged over 60.
  • Cognitive function assessed using a validated neuropsychological battery; MCI diagnosed per Petersen criteria.
  • Endothelial function evaluated via brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD); statistical analyses included multivariate analysis, correlation, and ANOVA.

Main Results:

  • Brachial FMD was significantly associated with MCI (p < 0.01).
  • Age, education, and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores independently predicted FMD variations (R² = 0.73, p < 0.0001).
  • MCI patients with amnestic multiple domain impairment exhibited the poorest brachial FMD.

Conclusions:

  • Vascular dysfunction, indicated by impaired FMD, is associated with mild cognitive impairment.
  • These findings suggest that endothelial dysfunction may contribute to the pathogenesis of cognitive impairment.
  • The results underscore the need for therapeutic strategies targeting vascular dysfunction in cognitive impairment.

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