Figure 4.
Conceptual model linking WMH to clinical progression in AD. Current pathogenic models of the disease emphasize the precipitating role of Aβ, which leads to tau pathology, resulting in regional atrophy, cognitive decline, and conversion to dementia. Results from this study suggest that regional WMH affect tau directly (a), affect markers of disease progression (i.e., regional atrophy and clinical progression) directly (b), and modify the effect of tau on disease progression (c). Whether or how regional WMH and Aβ interact needs to be elucidated (e).