Longitudinal Changes of BBB Permeability and transcytolemmal permeability in Alzheimer’s Disease Mice: A Non-Contrast MRI Study

Motivation: BBB disruption is demonstrated in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) but how does it change during the progression of disease, and its relationship with transcytolemmal water exchange are not clear. Goal(s): We aimed to evaluate the longitudinal changes of water exchange across BBB and across cytomembrane in AD mice. Approach: BBB permeability and transcytolemmal permeability to water were assessed in 3xTg-AD mouse from 6 to 10 months of age using WEPCAST and tDKI MRI, respectively. Results: Elevation of BBB permeability in AD mice started as early as 6 months. Transcytolemmal permeability was found to increase in the hippocampus. Impact: Current results suggested the potential role of BBB and transcytolemmal permeability as a biomarker in the early detection of AD. Their co-increase may be related to the altered glymphatic function.