Ocular Biomarkers to Predict Cognitive Decline: From Population Imaging to Clinical Risk Scores

Early identification of individuals at risk of cognitive decline remains a central challenge in healthy longevity research. The eye offers a unique, non-invasive window into neurovascular and neurodegenerative processes, with growing evidence that retinal structure and function mirror changes occurring in the brain. Advances in ocular imaging—such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), fundus photography, and OCT-angiography—now enable high-resolution, population-scale assessment of retinal layers, microvasculature, and neurodegenerative signatures. Increasing attention is also being directed toward how modifiable lifestyle factors, including diet and physical activity, influence these ocular biomarkers and their relationship with cognitive health.This Research Topic aims to bring together interdisciplinary work that leverages ocular biomarkers to improve the prediction, stratification, and monitoring of cognitive decline across the lifespan. We welcome studies using large-scale population cohorts, longitudinal datasets, and biobank-linked imaging resources to identify retinal features associated with early cognitive impairment, dementia risk, and brain aging trajectories. Particular interest lies in integrating ocular imaging with genetic, metabolic, and lifestyle data to uncover mechanistic links and improve predictive accuracy. We also encourage studies examining how interventions—such as dietary modification, exercise, or multi-domain lifestyle approaches—impact ocular biomarkers and their utility in predicting or modifying cognitive decline.We also encourage contributions focused on translating these discoveries into clinically actionable tools. This includes the development and validation of risk scores, machine learning models, and screening frameworks that incorporate ocular biomarkers for use in primary care or community settings, as well as studies evaluating intervention-driven changes in these markers. Studies addressing standardization, reproducibility, and health equity in imaging access are especially relevant to ensure broad applicability.By bridging population-level discovery with clinical implementation and intervention research, this Topic seeks to position ocular biomarkers as scalable, accessible tools for early detection, risk modification, and prevention strategies—ultimately supporting longer, healthier cognitive lifespans. Topic editors: Jacqueline Chua Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/79739/ocular-biomarkers-to-predict-cognitive-decline-from-population-imaging-to-clinical-risk-scores