Diffusion spectrum imaging in white matter microstructure in subjects with type 2 diabetes

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Medical Physics
• Diabetology

Background:

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with neurological complications.
• White matter microstructural integrity may be affected in T2DM.
• Early detection of these changes is crucial for timely intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and clinical utility of Diffusion Spectrum Imaging (DSI) for quantifying white matter integrity in T2DM.
• To investigate the relationship between DSI-derived metrics, cognitive function, and biochemical markers in T2DM.

Main Methods:

• Diffusion Spectrum Imaging (DSI) and high-resolution T1-weighted imaging were performed on 27 T2DM patients and 21 healthy controls (HC).
• DSI tractography was used to reconstruct the uncinate fasciculus and superior cingulum bundle.
• Cognitive function (MoCA, CDT) and biochemical markers (glucose, HbA1c, cholesterol) were assessed.

Main Results:

• T2DM patients showed significantly decreased Generalized Fractional Anisotropy (GFA) in the left uncinate fasciculus and right superior cingulum bundle compared to HC.
• Cognitive scores (MoCA, CDT) were significantly lower in T2DM patients.
• Reduced GFA in the right superior cingulum bundle was negatively associated with VFT scores and blood cholesterol levels.

Conclusions:

• DSI tractography is a feasible method for evaluating white matter microstructural integrity in T2DM.
• DSI findings correlate with cognitive deficits and biochemical alterations in T2DM.
• DSI may aid in predicting early white matter abnormalities in individuals with T2DM.