Modular brain networks shape amyloid-driven tau spread and cognitive decline.

INTRODUCTION

Alzheimer's disease involves trans-synaptic spread of tau pathology from temporal lobe epicenters, driven by amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition. How modular brain network architecture shapes this process and the ensuing cognitive decline remains incompletely understood. We tested whether the efficiency with which tau epicenters access cross-network communication pathways modulates Aβ-driven tau propagation.

METHODS

We combined baseline/longitudinal amyloid/tau positron emission tomography (PET) data across two independent AD cohorts (N = 490) with multimodal connectomics data. We quantified epicenter broadcast capacity (EBC), capturing whether tau epicenters preferentially access regions supporting cross-network communication or within-network communication.

RESULTS

Higher EBC was associated with faster Aβ-related global tau accumulation, greater spatial tau spread, and steeper cognitive decline. Effects were driven by stronger epicenter communication with cross-network connectors, whereas preferential within-network routing was associated with relative containment of tau spread.

DISCUSSION: We identify a mechanism through which epicenter connectivity biases Aβ-driven tau propagation toward brain-wide broadcast or regional containment, helping explain heterogeneity in disease progression.