Description: The HARMONIZATION & HARMONIZATION-EXTENSION project is an ambitious, ongoing longitudinal study aimed at unraveling the complexities of Vascular Cognitive Impairment (VCI) and dementia in a diverse cohort of individuals aged 50 and above. This study focuses on identifying novel biomarkers that can predict disease progression and cognitive changes in those with and without cognitive impairment, particularly in Southeast Asian populations where the burden of cerebrovascular disease is significant.
Key to this project is the exploration of a wide range of biomarkers, including neuroimaging data from MRI scans, blood-based markers, retinal assessments, and cardiovascular evaluations. These biomarkers are crucial in developing effective tools for early and accurate identification of VCI and monitoring its progression. The inclusion of retinal assessments provides a unique non-invasive window into cerebrovascular health, correlating closely with cerebral pathology.
A significant component of the study involves a subset of participants undergoing Amyloid PET scans (ABRI sub-study). These scans are instrumental in understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms underpinning cognitive decline, offering insights into the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease and VCI.
Having completed participant recruitment, the study is in its critical phase of finalizing Year 5 visit data collection, anticipated to conclude by March 2025. Recognizing the chronic and progressive nature of vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s, a study extension has commenced in April 2024 and is planning to track participants beyond 10 years. This extension will not only provide an in-depth understanding of cognitive deterioration but also explore factors contributing to cognitive resilience in aging populations.
The HARMONIZATION & HARMONIZATION-EXTENSION project seeks to bridge the gap between genetic, neurodegenerative, and vascular research by exploring modifiable processes such as endothelial dysfunction and inflammation. By identifying both short- and long-term biomarkers, the project aims to enhance diagnostic accuracy, refine prognostic predictions, and facilitate the development of targeted early interventions.
This study is groundbreaking in its scope and regional focus, being the only memory clinic-based longitudinal study in Southeast Asia dedicated to deep phenotyping. The insights gained promise to revolutionize assessments, improve service delivery in memory clinics, expand community-wide screening efforts for cognitive impairment and dementia, advancing precision medicine in dementia care.
