Heterogeneity in subjective cognitive decline in the Sino Longitudinal Study on Cognitive Decline(SILCODE):...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science

Background:

• Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD) is a growing concern, but its heterogeneity requires further investigation.
• Understanding SCD subtypes is crucial for identifying individuals at risk of progressive cognitive decline.

Purpose of the Study:

• To empirically derive subtypes of Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD) within the Sino Longitudinal Study on Cognitive Decline (SILCODE) cohort.
• To examine the neuroimaging markers, biomarkers, and clinical outcomes associated with these SCD subtypes.

Main Methods:

• Cluster analysis of neuropsychological test scores from 124 SCD participants and 57 normal controls (NC).
• Evaluation of structural and functional neuroimaging indices (gray matter volume, ALFF, FA) for identified SCD subgroups.

Main Results:

• Four subtypes emerged: dysexecutive/mixed SCD, neuropsychiatric SCD, amnestic SCD, and a cluster-derived normal group.
• Each SCD subgroup exhibited distinct patterns in gray matter volume and amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations compared to NC.
• Lower fractional anisotropy was specifically observed in the neuropsychiatric SCD group.

Conclusions:

• Empirically derived SCD subtypes confirm heterogeneity in neuropsychological profiles.
• Dysexecutive/mixed and amnestic SCD may represent high-risk groups for progressive decline.
• Neuropsychiatric SCD emerges as a novel area for future research in cognitive decline.