Applications of Endovascular Brain-Computer Interface in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease

Abstract

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder affecting the elderly, leading to important impairments in cognitive function and the ability to live independently. This results in substantial disability and places an increasing burden on families and society. Currently, the therapeutic approaches adopted in clinical practice predominantly hinge upon cholinesterase inhibitors and the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist memantine. Nevertheless, these medications merely alleviate symptoms and fail to tackle the pathological characteristics of AD. In recent years, monoclonal antibodies such as lecanemab and donanemab against β-amyloid (Aβ) have shown good efficacy in clinical practice for early-stage AD patients. However, the early diagnosis of AD remains a challenge. Against this backdrop, endovascular brain-computer interface (EBCI) offers an integrated solution for the early diagnosis and neuroregulatory treatment of AD patients, with minimal invasiveness. This review comprehensively examines the safety and feasibility of EBCI for AD patients, focusing on 3 major application areas: early diagnosis, deep brain stimulation targeting specific brain regions, such as the fornix and the basal nuclei of Meynert, and the use of external neurofeedback devices. Furthermore, we explore future development trends in this field, including miniaturization, integration, and the exploration of deep brain regions.