The heart-brain connection: the missing link in the pathophysiology of vascular cognitive impairment.

1. The heart-brain connection: the missing link in the pathophysiology of vascular cognitive impairment. M. Daemen M. Van Buchem

2. Consortium Prof. dr. H.P. Brunner la Rocca, Clinical Heart Failure Dr. G.J. Biessels, Neurology, Biomarkers, Diabetes Prof. dr. M.A. van Buchem, Neuroradiology Prof. dr. M. Daemen, Animal models, Pathology Dr. W.M. van der Flier, Neuropsychology Prof. dr. L.J. Kappelle, Neurology Prof. dr. P.J. Koudstaal, Neurology Prof. dr. W. J. Niessen, Image analysis Dr. R. van Oostenbrugge, Neurology Prof. dr. A. de Roos, Radiology, CV imaging Namen principal investigators vermelden Welke disciplines aanwezig (ontbreken er?) Is het consortium landelijk dekkend? Consortium

4. Research questions Hypothesis: Cardiac output disorders, atherosclerotic burden and carotid occlusive disease are important and potentially reversible, but underestimated causes of vascular cognitive impairment offering an excellent opportunity for treatment. Research questions: 1. To what extent contribute CHF, atherosclerotic burden and COD to VCI in the elderly? 2. What are the mechanisms/pathways involved? 3. How can cognitive function be improved in patients with CHF and COD? Stroke 2011

5. Research plan

6. Translation The program includes mechanistic animal studies, studies in patients and population based studies.