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Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports

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Open Access 08-12-2023 | Alzheimer's Disease | Review

Exploring the Role of Locus Coeruleus in Alzheimer’s Disease: a Comprehensive Update on MRI Studies and Implications

Authors: Alessandro Galgani, Filippo Sean Giorgi

Published in: Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports | Issue 12/2023

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Performing a thorough review of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies assessing locus coeruleus (LC) integrity in ageing and Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and contextualizing them with current preclinical and neuropathological literature.

Recent Findings

MRI successfully detected LC alterations in ageing and AD, identifying degenerative phenomena involving this nucleus even in the prodromal stages of the disorder. The degree of LC disruption was also associated with the severity of AD cortical pathology, cognitive and behavioral impairment, and the risk of clinical progression.

Summary

Locus coeruleus-MRI has proved to be a useful tool to assess the integrity of the central noradrenergic system in vivo in humans. It allowed to test in patients preclinical and experimental hypothesis, thus confirming the specific and marked involvement of the LC in AD and its key pathogenetic role. Locus coeruleus-MRI–related data might represent the theoretical basis on which to start developing noradrenergic drugs to target AD.

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Title: Exploring the Role of Locus Coeruleus in Alzheimer’s Disease: a Comprehensive Update on MRI Studies and Implications
Authors: Alessandro Galgani
Filippo Sean Giorgi
Publication date: 08-12-2023
Publisher: Springer US
Keywords: Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's Disease
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Mild Cognitive Impairment
Pathology
Published in: Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports / Issue 12/2023
Print ISSN: 1528-4042
Electronic ISSN: 1534-6293
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11910-023-01324-9

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Exploring the Role of Locus Coeruleus in Alzheimer’s Disease: a Comprehensive Update on MRI Studies and Implications

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

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