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Influence of lung function on macro- and micro-structural brain changes in mid- and late-life
Jiao Wang1, Weige Xu2, Abigail Dove3
1Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine,Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China.
International Journal of Surgery (London, England)
|January 27, 2025
Summary
Poor lung function is linked to brain structure changes like smaller brain volumes and reduced white matter integrity in mid- and late-life adults. This indicates potential neurodegenerative and vascular impacts.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pulmonology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Lung function is linked to cognitive decline and dementia.
- The impact of lung function on brain structure is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between lung function and structural brain changes.
- To examine macro- and micro-structural brain alterations in mid- and late-life.
Main Methods:
- Utilized UK Biobank data from 37,164 participants (aged 40-70).
- Assessed lung function via a composite score (FEV1, FVC, PEF).
- Analyzed brain MRI scans for structural volumes and diffusion markers (FA, MD) using regression and mixed-effects models.
Main Results:
- Low lung function correlated with smaller brain volumes (total, gray matter, white matter, hippocampus) and reduced white matter integrity.
- Over 2.5 years, low lung function showed reduced white matter/hippocampal volume, lower FA, and increased white matter hyperintensity volume and MD.
- Associations were significant across age groups (40-60 and 60+ years).
Conclusions:
- Low lung function is associated with both neurodegenerative and vascular brain pathologies.
- These brain changes are evident in both mid- and late-life individuals.
- Highlights the importance of respiratory health for brain structure maintenance.
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