Neuroimaging Biomarkers in Super Agers: Patterns of Functional and Structural Neural Alterations

• Grant number: 25/03836-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: August 01, 2025
• End date: July 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine - Medical Radiology
• Principal Investigator: Mariana Penteado Nucci da Silva
• Grantee: Isabella Silva Cantos
• Host Institution: Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da USP (HCFMUSP). Secretaria da Saúde (São Paulo - Estado). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Aging is a multifactorial biological process that affects everything from molecular structure to cognitive functionality. Physiological changes, such as loss of bone and muscle mass, cellular dysfunctions, and changes in genetic transcription, compromise neuronal functioning and increase vulnerability to neurodegenerative diseases. Studies suggest that neuroimaging biomarkers, such as brain atrophy, decreased blood perfusion, and changes in white matter, play a key role in characterizing brain aging. However, Super Agers demonstrate greater resistance to cognitive decline, possibly due to brain and cognitive reserve mechanisms. Magnetic resonance imaging has been essential in investigating these differences, allowing the identification of structural and functional patterns associated with cognitive longevity. From a technological perspective, this project aims to provide an overview of classical and advanced neuroimaging analyses used to predict biomarkers of healthy aging, promoting a more accurate and integrated approach to characterizing brain aging. Thus, by investigating the neural bases of Super Agers and cognitive reserve, we hope to provide support for future strategies for preventing and intervening in cognitive decline. The primary objective of this research is to contribute to the systematization of findings on brain aging, with a focus on cognitive reserve and the identification of protective factors. To this end, a systematic review of the literature will be conducted using the PRISMA model, covering publications from the last ten years, with a focus on the most recent five years. The PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases will be used to select the articles, ensuring the scientific relevance of the findings.