Kidney Microstructure Predicts Poor Cognitive Function in Healthy Racially/Ethnically Diverse Older Adults

Motivation: Black and Latino older adults are disproportionately impacted by Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) and have higher rates of kidney disease. However, there is limited data on the link between kidney imaging and cognition. Goal(s): The following study investigated the link between kidney microstructural integrity and cognition in older adults without overt kidney or neurological disease. Approach: In an ethnically and racially diverse population, we used a combination of biospecimen analysis, cognitive assessment, and diffusion imaging to conduct this study. Results: We found that renal fractional anisotropy was more predictive of cognition than eGFR or MRI-derived white matter microstructure. Impact: Unraveling the link between diseases of the brain and kidneys will allow better management and improved quality of life for those afflicted. Our finding that renal microstructure predicts cognition may help illuminate new mechanisms of ADRD.