Associations between endothelial dysfunction, cognitive reserve, and cognitive function in dementia-free older...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Gerontology
• Cardiovascular Research

Background:

• Peripheral biomarkers of vascular endothelial dysfunction (ED) are increasingly linked to cognitive impairment in aging populations.
• Understanding the interplay between ED and cognitive function is crucial for developing targeted interventions in older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between vascular ED and cognitive function in older adults.
• To explore the potential moderating role of lifelong cognitive reserve (CR) in this relationship.

Main Methods:

• A population-based, cross-sectional study of 1540 dementia-free Chinese adults aged ≥60 years.
• Cognitive function assessed via a neuropsychological test battery.
• Vascular ED measured using serum ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 levels; cognitive reserve (CR) calculated using education, occupation, mental activity, and social support.

Main Results:

• Higher levels of ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and a composite ED score were significantly associated with lower global cognition, attention, and executive function.
• No significant interaction was found between ED biomarkers and lifelong CR on cognitive outcomes.
• Episodic memory was not significantly associated with the ED biomarkers.

Conclusions:

• Vascular ED is independently associated with diminished cognitive performance in older adults.
• Lifelong cognitive reserve does not appear to significantly alter the relationship between vascular ED and cognitive function.
• These findings highlight vascular health as a critical factor in maintaining cognitive function in aging populations.