The researchers used artificial intelligence to analyze magnetic resonance imaging and identify the markers associated with cerebral atrophy
A single magnetic resonance imaging imaging can be able to indicate the speed of the aging of the brain. This is what a study did from the neuroscientists from Duke Universityin the United States, published in July in the magazine ‘Aging of nature‘.
On analysis
First of all, from the analysis of 50,000 imaging tests, the research reveals that the thickness of the cerebral cortex (the outermost layer of the organ) and the volume of the gray mass are among the most relevant markers to evaluate brain health. These structural models can be indicative of issues such as memory loss and the risk of death from thin signals of cerebral atrophy.
The investigation used the study data Dunedinwho followed the life of a thousand volunteers for over 50 years New Zealand. From the clinical observation of the traits of brain aging in these people, the researchers have proposed a model for the analysis of the organ of the organ. For this, artificial intelligence has been used, called dunedinpacni, which can estimate the rhythm of the other biological clock.
For the neurologist Marco Túlio Pedatella, from Einstein Hospital Israelita in GoiâniaThe tool, therefore, is a promising technique to detect the risk of cognitive decline before the initial symptoms. “When you observe data such as the reduced gray and white and hippocampal atrophy, the model can estimate the aging of the brain with changes in the processing speed, motor slowness, memory fall and compromised coordination.”Analyze Pedatella. “This allows you to predict the functional decline even in still asymptomatic people and to estimate the individual rhythm of biological aging.”
The model does not depend on new technologies in addition to the analysis of the artificial intelligence of the available image exams. The proposal establishes only parameters that interpret the brain structure captured by conventional resonances. According to the authors, this analysis was more accurate to evaluate biological aging compared to markers based on blood tests and physical performance.
Clinical applications still limited
For the neurologist Eduardo ZimmerProfessor at the Federal University of Rio Grande do on (Ufrgs), the automation of these assessments should be cautious, further research is needed until it can incorporate them into clinical practice. “It should be remembered that the model was developed only using the neozelander brain. We must validate these metrics with the exams made in Brazil before adopting any reference model.”observe.
In addition, the part of the Brazilian population is still small that has access to magnetic resonance imaging, even in private health. According to the neurologist Victor Calil, a member of Brazilian Neurology Academy (Abn), for now, the procedure should continue to be performed only when there are cognitive complaints.
“Cerebral aging is a normal process. As in all organs, there is a certain level of atrophy”Calil says. “Of course it is important in specific clinical contexts to evaluate whether aging is as expected, as in the presence of complaints of cognitive difficulties, but generally making a resonance in asymptomatic people has little value and can generate more anxiety than benefits.”
Challenges for Sus on the aging of the brain
In the daily life of primary care, the screening of brain aging depends on simple tests. Neuropsychological tests help to evaluate motor performance and cognitive processing, indicating the symptoms of dementia before recommending the consultation with the neurologist. These assessments can also be applied by community health agents during home visits to patients.
However, in Brazil, the Unified health system (Sus) still does not have a protocol to trace brain aging with image exams. “To include more advanced exams such as resonance or specific public health assessments, it would be necessary to form primary care teams to recognize patients with an important cognitive decline, establish reference flows for neurologists and guarantee financing and diagnostic structure, which has not been done.”Pedatella warning.
Finally, in any scenario, however, the best way to preserve brain functions is still to maintain good health. Keeping chronic controlled cardiovascular diseases, stimulating continuous learning, often have a balanced diet and a good sleep routine are factors that reduce long -term risks.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
