Investigating Choroid Plexus Subcompartments in Aging and Premanifest Synucleinopathy Using 7 Tesla MRI

Motivation: Alterations in the choroid plexus (ChP) may impair the cerebrospinal fluid waste-clearance system, contributing to aging and, in premanifest synucleinopathy, to neurotoxic α-synuclein accumulation; however, these mechanisms remain underexplored. Goal(s): To classify ChP sub-compartments (stromal tissue/vessels, cysts) and assess their structural changes in aging and premanifest synucleinopathy. Approach: Using multi-contrast 7 Tesla MRI, we segmented ChP sub-compartments in younger/older controls (YCON/OCON), and in premanifest synucleinopathy (iRBD). Results: Total ChP, stromal tissue and vessel volumes increased with age, but not in iRBD. Cyst volumes remained stable. Mean T1-weighted signal decreased with age. iRBD exhibited higher T1-weighted signal variability in ChP and stromal tissue. Impact: Findings reveal age-related ChP sub-compartment volume and signal changes, with increased heterogeneity in iRBD indicating disrupted structural integrity. ChP sub-compartment analysis enhances understanding of ChP's role in aging and synucleinopathies, potentially aiding biomarker development.