White matter microstructural damage and its effect on cognitive impairment in patients with metabolic syndrome and cerebral small vessel disease.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is linked to cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) and cognitive impairment in the elderly, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigated whether white matter (WM) microstructural damage mediates the relationship between CSVD severity and cognitive function in patients with MetS.

Methods

A total of 170 right-handed participants aged 50-80 years were recruited, including 75 with MetS and 95 healthy controls (HC). MetS participants were divided into MetS without CSVD (MetS-NCSVD, n = 22) and MetS with CSVD (MetS-CSVD, n = 53). Cognitive function was assessed using Montreal cognitive assessment, Stroop color word test (SCWT), trail making test (TMT) and geriatric depression scale. WM integrity was evaluat

SUBMITTER: Liu H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12855072 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature