Higher proportion of visceral adipose tissue is associated with smaller regional brain volumes in older adults with type 2 diabetes: Triglycerides may be in the pathway

Background Numerous studies have identified an increased risk for Alzheimer’s dementia (AD) in Type II Diabetes (T2D). However, the T2D biological characteristics contributing to this are still unknown. Adiposity assessed by body mass index (BMI) is one of main causes and has been consistently linked higher risk, faster cognitive decline, related neural injury. contribution fat specifically cannot be derived from BMI, which encompasses different adipose tissues, bone, muscle mass. In study we examined whether regional abdominal adiposity contributes AD-related brain volume mechanism underlying it, older adults with participating Israel Cognitive Decline (IDCD) study. Method Regional was measured so far 60 participants, including hepatic pancreatic tissue (AAT), composed subcutaneous visceral tissues (SAT VAT). Brain volumes were regions associated decline (hippocampus, cingulate gyrus, amygdala, ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC)). Linear regressions associations adjusting sociodemographics, BMI intracranial volume. We also tested if triglycerides, components mediated these associations. Result Greater VAT:AAT ratio smaller vmPFC (r = -0.38; p 0.026) hippocampal -0.44; 0.005) but not amygdala gyrus volumes. The SAT:AAT greater 0.40; hippocampus 0.48; 0.004) cingulate. No found between Higher triglyceride levels 0.38; 0.036) turn lower -0.45, 0.05). Triglycerides partially association -0.36; 0.03). did mediate any other Conclusion T2D, a proportion may detrimental impact on relevant functioning. proportions protective role. Triglycerides, implicated insulin resistance chronic systemic inflammation VAT-hippocampus link.