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Neurocognitive Disorders in Heart Failure: Novel Pathophysiological Mechanisms Underpinning Memory Loss and Learning
C Toledo1,2, D C Andrade1,3, H S Díaz1
1Laboratory of Cardiorespiratory Control, Department of Physiology, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
Molecular Neurobiology
|June 6, 2019
Summary
Heart failure (HF) is linked to cognitive decline in older adults. This review explores molecular mechanisms like neuroinflammation and oxidative stress that contribute to brain dysfunction in HF patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Heart failure (HF) affects millions globally, particularly the elderly.
- HF is associated with neurocognitive decline, impacting memory, attention, and executive functions.
- Simultaneous HF and cognitive impairment increase hospitalization and mortality risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review molecular mechanisms underlying neurocognitive decline in HF.
- To focus on cerebral ischemia, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, Wnt signaling, and mtDNA alterations.
- To integrate cardiorespiratory control alterations with cognitive dysfunction in HF.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent evidence on molecular mechanisms in HF-related cognitive decline.
- Focus on pathways including cerebral ischemia, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, Wnt signaling, and mtDNA.
- Integrative approach linking cardiorespiratory control to cognitive function.
Main Results:
- HF involves chronic sympathetic activation and neurocognitive impairment.
- Mechanisms include cerebral hypoperfusion, ischemia, and infarction.
- Chronic norepinephrine release, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation contribute to cognitive deficits.
Conclusions:
- HF-induced sympathoexcitation and associated molecular changes drive cognitive impairment.
- Oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are key mediators, affecting mitochondrial function.
- Wnt signaling pathway alterations are implicated in HF-related cognitive decline.
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