Moyamoya disease: A human model for chronic hypoperfusion and intervention in Alzheimer's disease

INTRODUCTION: Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion has been considered the etiology for sporadic Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, no valid clinical evidence exists due to the similar risk factors between cerebrovascular disease and AD. METHODS: We used moyamoya disease (MMD) as a model of chronic hypoperfusion and cognitive impairment, without other etiology interference. RESULTS: Based on the previous reports and preliminary findings, we hypothesized that chronic cerebral hypoperfusion could be an independent upstream crucial variable, resulting in AD, and induce pathological hallmarks such as amyloid beta peptide and hyperphosphorylated tau accumulation. DISCUSSION: Timely intervention with revascularisation would help reverse the brain damage with AD hallmarks and lead to cognitive improvement.