1. Joseph I. Friedman et al. JIMG 2014;7:1039-1053
How Can Brain Circuit Connectivity Inform Us About Cardiovascular Health? A 3-dimensional visualization of normal brain white matter tracts generated by tractography analysis of data collected by diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). This analysis uses special techniques of magnetic resonance imaging and computer-based image analysis to provide insight into the complex white matter connections between neural networks formed by short connections among different cortical and subcortical brain regions. DTI can be used to evaluate the integrity of these white matter connections. Data from this review demonstrate that the same risk factors for cardiovascular disease also compromise the integrity of these white matter connections and thus the normal physiological pattern of synchronized activation/deactivation of these interconnected brain regions (also presented in this review). These disruptions result in subtle cognitive impairments. Although not easily recognizable, we hypothesize that they are sufficient to adversely affect the adoption of primary prevention measures for cardiovascular events. The use of sophisticated neuroimaging techniques such as DTI to assess changes in structure of brain connectivity and related neuroimaging techniques to assess functional changes in brain connectivity in persons at risk of cardiovascular disease and events will enhance our understanding of the role of the brain in the progression from cardiovascular risk factor to symptomatic disease.
Joseph I. Friedman et al. JIMG 2014;7:
American College of Cardiology Foundation