White matter hyperintensities precede other biomarkers in GRN frontotemporal dementia.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Increased white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) have been reported in genetic frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in small studies, but the sequence of WMH abnormalities relative to other biomarkers is unclear.

Methods

Using a large dataset (n = 763 GENFI2 participants), we measured WMHs and examined them across genetic FTD variants and stages. Cortical and subcortical volumes were parcellated, and serum neurofilament light chain (NfL) levels were measured. Biomarker progression was assessed with discriminative event-based and regression modeling.

Results

Symptomatic GRN carriers showed elevated WMHs, primarily in the frontal lobe, while no significant increase was observed in symptomatic C9orf72 or MAPT carriers. WMH abnormalities preceded NfL elevation, ventri

SUBMITTER: Soltaninejad M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12504049 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature