Enlargement of perivascular spaces is associated with accelerated Aβ accumulation

Motivation: Enlargement of perivascular spaces (PVS) has been found associated with Alzheimer's disease. Goal(s): To explore whether PVS burden modifies the trajectory of Aβ accumulation. Approach: PVS volumes were obtained using an automated PVS segmentation tool, and Aβ deposition was evaluated using PET. Linear mixed models were applied to investigate the association between baseline PVS burden and Aβ deposition rates. Results: A higher baseline basal ganglia PVS burden was associated with faster rates of Aβ accumulation. Impact: We found that higher PVS burden is associated with faster rates of Aβ accumulation. This insight enhances our understanding of mechanisms and trajectory of Aβ accumulation, which could aid in developing therapeutic strategies to delay the progression of Alzheimer's disease.