Retinal microvascular dysfunction in mild cognitive impairment: Associations with cerebral small vessel disease, plasma biomarkers, and cognitive decline.

Key Points

• This research aims to explore the relationship between retinal microvascular dysfunction and cognitive decline in mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
• Analyzed retinal microvascular health in individuals with mild cognitive impairment.
• Assessed associations with indicators of cerebral small vessel disease and neurodegeneration.
• Evaluated the role of plasma biomarkers in relation to cognitive status.
• Retinal microvascular dysfunction was significantly associated with indicators of cerebral small vessel disease.
• Plasma biomarkers correlated with the degree of cognitive decline observed in the participants.
• Findings suggest retinal health may serve as a non-invasive biomarker for early detection of cognitive impairment.