Dual-Task Gait Predicts Changes in Choline in the Primary Motor Cortex of Older Individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment

The dual-task cost on walking speed (DTC) can predict the progression of dementia in people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). In MCI, levels of choline in the primary motor cortex, an MRS metabolite associated with inflammation, has been negatively correlated with dual-task speed. However, it is unknown whether DTC can predict choline changes in MCI. 65 MCI patients were assessed for DTC speed and absolute choline concentration in the motor cortex before and after 6 months. DTC at baseline was positively correlated with changes in choline after 6 months, suggesting that gait impairment may precede neuroinflammation in MCI.