Two Opposing Brain Fuel Patterns May Predict Who Keeps Their Cognition With Age
Graded Moderate — observational imaging study of 3,142 participants across 15,287 visits in two cohorts, yet associations alone cannot show that these metabolic patterns drive cognitive change.
- Design
- Cohort Study
- Participants
- 3,142
- Duration
- —
- Funding
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This study suggests white matter glucose patterns could help identify people at risk for cognitive decline earlier.
Brain white matter (the wiring that connects brain regions) uses glucose differently depending on where you look. In over 3,000 participants across two studies, higher glucose use in expected areas like the corpus callosum linked to better thinking skills. But higher glucose use in unusual areas like the corona radiata linked to worse cognition, likely a sign the brain is compensating. Over time, people with strong "normal" metabolism and low "compensatory" metabolism declined more slowly.
Disclaimer: Research summaries are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.
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