White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are bright patches that can only be see when pictures of the brain are taken through an MRI scan. WMHs are usually found in people with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders.
UW researchers are investigating why white matter hyperintensities occur by analyzing blood biomarkers, cerebrospinal fluid, cognitive testing, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
The Women’s Health & Cognition Study is enrolling women age 35 and older who may have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease later in life. This study explores the relationship between hormone declines with menopause and brain changes contributing to cognition in aging females. Women across all reproductive stages are welcome to participate, though there is a special interest in those who are actively going through menopause.