Effects of risk factors on longitudinal changes in brain structure and function in the progression of AD

IntroductionPast research on Alzheimer's disease (AD) has focused on biomarkers, cognition, and neuroimaging as primary predictors of its progression, albeit additional ones have recently gained attention. When turning to the prediction of the progression from one stage to another, one could benefit from the joint assessment of imaging-based biomarkers and risk/protective factors. MethodsWe included 86 studies that fulfilled our inclusion criteria. ResultsOur review summarizes and discusses the results of 30 years of longitudinal research on brain changes assessed with neuroimaging and the risk/protective factors and their effect on AD progression. We group results into four sections: genetic, demographic, cognitive and cardiovascular, and lifestyle factors. DiscussionGiven the complex nature of AD, including risk factors could prove invaluable for a better understanding of AD progression. Some of these risk factors are modifiable and could be targeted by potential future treatments.