Genetic and degenerative disorders primarily causing dementia.

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Neurology
• Dementia Research

Background:

• Neuroimaging is crucial for diagnosing dementia, understanding its neurobiology, and monitoring treatment.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) are key neuroimaging modalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diagnostic and therapeutic applications of neuroimaging in dementia.
• To highlight the role of advanced imaging techniques in understanding dementia pathology and progression.

Main Methods:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) for volume changes, connectivity, and blood flow (Arterial Spin Labeling).
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET) for metabolism, β-amyloid and tau deposition, and inflammation.
• In vivo quantification of pathological features in dementia.

Main Results:

• Neuroimaging quantifies neurodegeneration, inflammation, altered blood flow, and abnormal protein deposition (β-amyloid, tau).
• Longitudinal studies show β-amyloid deposition precedes dementia onset by decades, identifying a therapeutic window.
• Emerging tau and inflammation imaging, combined with genomics, show promise for future insights.

Conclusions:

• Neuroimaging provides in vivo quantification of dementia-related pathologies, aiding diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
• Early detection of pathologies like β-amyloid deposition via imaging enables proactive therapeutic interventions.
• Future advancements in tau, inflammation imaging, and genomics will further enhance dementia understanding and treatment.