Researchers have developed an artificial
intelligence-based framework that can measure how individual brain regions age,
offering a more detailed picture than conventional methods that estimate the
brain’s overall biological age. The new method, explained in a study published
in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, identifies
differences in ageing patterns across distinct brain structures, helping
scientists better understand age-related neurological changes.
The researchers say the framework could
improve the early detection of disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
diseases by pinpointing areas showing accelerated ageing before clinical
symptoms appear. It may also help monitor disease progression and assess the
effectiveness of treatments.
By revealing that different parts of the
brain age at varying rates, the AI-powered system provides a more precise way
to study brain health and could pave the way for personalised strategies to
prevent and manage neurodegenerative diseases.