High susceptibility is associated with the disruption of white matter tracts and network integrity in AD mouse model

Motivation: The effects of white matter damage on brain function in Alzheimer's Disease, is not fully characterized. Goal(s): We aimed to analyze the relationship between susceptibility, diffusion, and brain network measures to assess white matter integrity in an Alzheimer's mouse model. Approach: We imaged 45 mice, including those expressing amyloid precursor protein and age-matched controls, and obtained susceptibility maps, fractional anisotropy maps, and brain connectivity matrices. Linear regression analyses controlling for age, sex, and disease status were conducted. Results: High susceptibility correlated with the disruption of white matter fiber tracts and impaired network strength and efficiency in the Alzheimer's model. Impact: The increase in susceptibility associated with compromised white matter integrity in Alzheimer's disease highlights the critical impact of white matter dysfunction on brain function and provides researchers and clinicians quantitative insights to guide future research, targeted therapies, and treatments.