Volume 26, Issue 2 (7-2026)
Iran J Diabetes Metab. 2026, 26(2): 144-152 |
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Soleymani Y, Hatami J, Payab M, Pourabbasi A. Cognitive Changes in Metabolic Syndrome: A Narrative Review of Neuroimaging Evidence and Molecular Pathways. Iran J Diabetes Metab. 2026; 26 (2) :144-152
URL: http://ijdld.tums.ac.ir/article-1-6495-en.html
URL: http://ijdld.tums.ac.ir/article-1-6495-en.html
1- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran & Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
2- Department of Cognitive psychology, Faculty of Psychology and education, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
3- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
4- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran & Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran ,atapoura@gmail.com
2- Department of Cognitive psychology, Faculty of Psychology and education, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
3- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
4- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran & Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran ,
Abstract: (113 Views)
Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with a higher risk of cognitive dysfunction and brain structural alterations, yet the specific contributions of its components and underlying mechanisms remain unclear.
Methods: This narrative review integrates findings from neuroimaging, clinical, and molecular studies to provide a conceptual understanding of how MetS affects cognition. A non-systematic and targeted search was conducted up to June 2025 using terms such as metabolic syndrome, cognition, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Studies were selected based on their relevance and conceptual contribution.
Results: Evidence converges on inflammation, oxidative stress, vascular injury, and insulin resistance as key mechanisms linking MetS to gray and white matter changes and cognitive impairment. Structural and functional MRI studies demonstrate disrupted brain connectivity and reduced hippocampal volume in individuals with MetS. Gender and genetic differences may also influence the strength of this association. The coexistence of metabolic syndrome and cognitive dysfunction is linked to reduced health-related quality of life.
Conclusion: The narrative synthesis highlights how metabolic and vascular factors jointly drive neurocognitive decline and underscores the need for longitudinal and mechanistic research.
Methods: This narrative review integrates findings from neuroimaging, clinical, and molecular studies to provide a conceptual understanding of how MetS affects cognition. A non-systematic and targeted search was conducted up to June 2025 using terms such as metabolic syndrome, cognition, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Studies were selected based on their relevance and conceptual contribution.
Results: Evidence converges on inflammation, oxidative stress, vascular injury, and insulin resistance as key mechanisms linking MetS to gray and white matter changes and cognitive impairment. Structural and functional MRI studies demonstrate disrupted brain connectivity and reduced hippocampal volume in individuals with MetS. Gender and genetic differences may also influence the strength of this association. The coexistence of metabolic syndrome and cognitive dysfunction is linked to reduced health-related quality of life.
Conclusion: The narrative synthesis highlights how metabolic and vascular factors jointly drive neurocognitive decline and underscores the need for longitudinal and mechanistic research.
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