Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 9, 2025

A Machine Learning Approach to Design an Efficient Selective Screening of Mild Cognitive Impairment
Published on: January 11, 2020
Comprehensive Clinical and Behavioral Characteristics of Mild Cognitive Impairment According to Amyloid Positivity: A
Seung Ae Kim1,2, Yeshin Kim3, Duk L Na4,5
1Department of Neurology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
Background And Purpose:
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a transitional stage to dementia, Alzheimer's disease being a major cause. Although amyloid beta-positive (Aβ+) MCI has been well-characterized, Aβ-negative (Aβ-) MCI has not. This study compared the comprehensive clinical and behavioral characteristics of Aβ+ and Aβ- MCI in a large multi-center cohort to better understand the heterogeneity of MCI, and to identify contributing factors to cognitive impairment.
Methods:
A total of 686 MCI participants were included. Aβ positivity was determined using Aβ positron emission tomography imaging with a direct conversion Centiloid cutoff value of 25.5. Standardized assessment and questionnaires were used to collect a wide range of clinical information, including vascular risk factors, cognition, daily living function, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and lifestyle behavior. Groups were compared using independent t-tests and χ2 tests.
Results:
Aβ+ participants (n=406) were older, predominantly female, and more likely to be ApoE4 carriers. In contrast, Aβ- participants (n=280) showed higher vascular risk factors, including diabetes, elevated body mass index, and higher C-reactive protein levels. Aβ+ participants exhibited worse global cognition and functional decline, with a higher prevalence of delusions and appetite disturbances. Meanwhile, Aβ- participants reported greater social engagement, but poorer sleep quality.
Conclusions:
This study highlights the distinct clinical and lifestyle profiles of Aβ+ and Aβ- MCI, illuminating the heterogeneity of MCI and its underlying factors in the Korean population.
Insights
Amyloid beta-positive (Aβ+) mild cognitive impairment (MCI) differs from Aβ-negative (Aβ-) MCI. Aβ+ MCI shows worse cognition, while Aβ- MCI presents with more vascular risks and sleep issues.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Gerontology
- Biomarkers
Background:
- Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a precursor to dementia, with Alzheimer's disease often linked to amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques.
- Amyloid beta-positive (Aβ+) MCI is well-studied, but the characteristics of amyloid beta-negative (Aβ-) MCI remain less understood.
- Understanding MCI heterogeneity is crucial for accurate diagnosis and targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the clinical and behavioral profiles of Aβ+ MCI and Aβ- MCI.
- To identify factors contributing to cognitive impairment in different MCI subtypes.
- To elucidate the heterogeneity of MCI in a large, multi-center cohort.
Main Methods:
- Included 686 participants with MCI.
- Determined Aβ positivity using positron emission tomography (PET) imaging with a Centiloid cutoff of 25.5.
- Collected comprehensive data on vascular risk factors, cognition, daily function, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and lifestyle behaviors.
Main Results:
- Aβ+ MCI participants (n=406) were older, more often female, and ApoE4 carriers, with poorer cognition and function.
- Aβ- MCI participants (n=280) had higher vascular risk factors (diabetes, obesity, inflammation) and reported better social engagement but worse sleep quality.
- Distinct clinical and behavioral profiles were observed between Aβ+ and Aβ- MCI groups.
Conclusions:
- This study reveals significant differences between Aβ+ and Aβ- MCI.
- The findings underscore the heterogeneity of MCI and its underlying causes.
- These insights are vital for understanding cognitive decline and developing personalized treatments.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Alzheimer's Disease: Overview
The clinical diagnosis of AD hinges on the presence of memory and other cognitive impairments. Biomarkers, such as changes in Aβ...
Dementia
The progression of dementia is generally gradual....
Alzheimer's Disease: Treatment

