The neurovascular coupling mechanism in stroke-free AF patients and its association with cardiac function and cognitive decline

Motivation: Stroke-free AF patients mechanisms of neurovascular coupling (NVC) changes and the link between cardiac function and cognitive decline are unclear. Goal(s): To explore changes in neurovascular coupling (NVC) and the potential mechanisms by which cardiac function affects cognition in stroke-free AF patients. Approach: This study uses multimodal MRI to assess neuronal activity and cerebrovascular reactivity, analyze their relationship, and evaluate how neural activity mediates the connection between cardiac function and cognitive decline. Results: AF patients exhibit significant neurovascular coupling in brain regions related to cognitive control, and imaging biomarkers mediate the relationship between cardiac function parameters and cognitive decline in stroke-free AF patients. Impact: Multimodal functional magnetic resonance imaging for cognitive assessment provides evidence to support the development of more effective integrated strategies for preventing and treating atrial fibrillation-related cognitive impairment.