Visual-somatosensory integration as a novel marker of Alzheimer's disease

NARRATIVE We propose a novel, non-cognitive, non-invasive behavioral marker of preclinical Alzheimer’s disease called multisensory integration based on findings that reveal a functional interplay of multisensory, cognitive, and mobility processes. Our proposed study will: 1) provide a deeper understanding of the functional neural networks involved in multisensory integration processes in preclinical Alzheimer’s disease; 2) determine whether functional multisensory activation in prefrontal cortex predicts future mobility decline and falls in preclinical Alzheimer’s disease; 3) assess the validity of multisensory integration as an early marker for preclinical Alzheimer’s disease; and 4) provide insights into the neurobiology of Alzheimer’s disease. Results from this project will guide future multisensory-based interventions aimed to alleviate disability and maintain functional independence of older adults at-risk for Alzheimer’s disease that can significantly augment existing interventions. 1