Deep-learning segmentation of peri-sinus structures reveals changes across the human lifespan with implications for neurofluid circulation

Motivation: Peri-sinus structures such as the parasagittal dural space (PSD) and intravenous arachnoid granulation (AG) play an important role in regulating the CSF circulation. Goal(s): To investigate the volume of the PSD and AG in children and adults (age range=5-100 years). Approach: We refined and applied a novel deep-learning algorithm to estimate volumetric measures of PSD and intravenous AG in a large dataset (n=1,815) using 3D T2-weighted MRI. Results: Data confirm sex effects on PSD and AG volumes and indicate a more rapid growth in early life with an increase of 0.9 cm3 and 0.64 mm3 per year before plateauing in mid-adulthood. Impact: Analysis provides new insight into PSD and AG changes in a large dataset of healthy control participants. Findings demonstrate developmental PSD and intravenous AG changes, which may serve as an exemplar for normal vs. unhealthy aging across the lifespan.