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Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Analysis of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Published on: July 28, 2013
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Neurite-based white matter alterations in MAPT mutation carriers: A multi-shell diffusion MRI study in the ALLFTD
Nick Corriveau-Lecavalier1, Nirubol Tosakulwong2, Timothy G Lesnick2
1Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
Neurobiology of Aging
|December 13, 2023
Summary
MAPT mutation carriers show early white matter (WM) changes, detectable even in asymptomatic individuals. Advanced imaging reveals subtle alterations in WM integrity, offering insights into disease progression.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Genetics
- Neurology
Background:
- White matter (WM) integrity is crucial for brain function.
- MAPT mutations are linked to neurodegenerative diseases.
- Early detection of WM changes can aid in understanding disease mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess white matter (WM) integrity in MAPT mutation carriers.
- To compare imaging metrics between asymptomatic and symptomatic carriers and controls.
- To investigate the relationship between WM changes and disease progression.
Main Methods:
- Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) were used.
- Fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), neurite density index (NDI), and orientation and dispersion index (ODI) were measured.
- Linear mixed-effects models and regression analyses were employed.
Main Results:
- Alterations in DTI and NODDI metrics were found in all MAPT mutation carriers, especially in fronto-temporal WM tracts.
- Asymptomatic carriers exhibited higher entorhinal mean diffusivity (MD) and lower cingulum fractional anisotropy (FA).
- Neurite-based metrics, particularly ODI, were sensitive to early WM involvement in asymptomatic carriers.
Conclusions:
- MAPT mutation carriers exhibit widespread WM abnormalities.
- Imaging metrics show significant relationships with estimated time to or from disease onset.
- Neurite imaging metrics are promising for detecting early WM changes in MAPT mutation carriers.
