Developing Biomarkers for Vascular Cognitive Impairment

This study looks to validate novel neuroimaging biomarkers in profiling older adults with vascular cognitive impairment and vascular dementia. Of particular interest, participants will undergo brain MRI scans with contrast and MRI with a gas challenge task involving short intervals of breathing in 5% CO2 air, both of which are tests for vascular health in the brain that have new applications in the diagnosis of vascular dementia. 

You may be eligible to participate if you meet the following criteria

• Aged 50-80 years
• Able to understand and undergo cognitive assessments in English
• VCI/VaD: Presence of cognitive decline from previous performance, following onset of any vascular condition (e.g. stroke, mini-stroke, brain ischemia, hypertension, high cholesterol, heart conditions), and not known to be due to Alzheimer's disease or other forms of neurodegeneration
• Able to undergo high-field MRI (3T); no electronic or metallic implants that are not MRi compatible
• No history of other significant neurological or psychiatric condition
• No current malignancy

Participation involves two study visits and a follow up phone call:

• Visit 1: Fasting blood test for fluid biomarkers, clinical and cognitive assessments
• Visit 2: Structural and functional brain MRI, including contrast scan and gas challenge task
• Follow-up phone call one year later for updated medical information