Non-Invasive Measurement of Microvascular Pulsations in the Human Brain

A recent study published in Nature Cardiovascular Research introduces the first non-invasive method to measure “microvascular pulsations” in living humans. These pulsations, characterized by the regular expansion and contraction of capillaries, are crucial for understanding brain health and their connection to neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

The Importance of Microvessels in the Brain

Microvessels are an essential part of the circulatory system, playing a vital role in delivering blood to various tissues. In the brain, these vessels are particularly important as they help supply the oxygen and nutrients necessary for vital brain functions.

The study reveals that microvascular pulsations become stronger with age, especially in the deep white matter of the brain, a region critical for communication between brain networks. However, this area is also particularly vulnerable to reduced blood flow, which can lead to cognitive issues.

Techniques Used in the Study

The research team employed high-resolution 7-Tesla MRI technology to monitor subtle changes in vessel volume throughout the cardiac cycle. This technique combines advanced methods like VASO and ASL to observe slight changes in the volume of small blood vessels.

Using these techniques, researchers observed that older adults exhibit stronger microvascular pulsations in the deep white matter compared to younger individuals, and that high blood pressure exacerbates these effects.

Impact of Pulsations on Brain Health

The findings suggest that excessive microvascular pulsations may negatively affect the brain’s glymphatic system, a recently discovered system that removes waste such as beta-amyloid protein associated with Alzheimer’s disease. This disruption in fluid circulation could accelerate cognitive decline.

Researchers state that the ability to measure these vascular pulsations in real life represents a significant advancement in understanding brain aging and offers hope for early diagnosis and monitoring of neurodegenerative disorders.

Future Applications and Prospects

Researchers are exploring how to adapt this methodology for broader clinical use, including on more widely available 3-Tesla MRI machines. Future studies aim to test whether measuring microvascular pulsations can serve as a biomarker for early intervention in Alzheimer’s and related diseases.

This research marks the beginning of transitioning this technique from research labs to clinical practice, potentially guiding diagnosis, prevention, and treatment strategies for millions at risk of dementia.

Conclusion

The recent study using MRI technology provides an in-depth look at how microvascular pulsations in the brain affect neurological health. As age advances and risk factors like high blood pressure increase, these pulsations become more pronounced, potentially contributing to cognitive decline and diseases like Alzheimer’s. Thanks to these new discoveries, there is hope for improving diagnostic and treatment methods for neurodegenerative diseases in the future.