Advances in Early Detection, Pathophysiology, and Management of Mild Cognitive Impairment

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is recognized as an intermediate stage between normal cognitive aging and dementia, representing a critical opportunity for timely intervention. Despite its growing prevalence, the pathophysiological underpinnings, early detection strategies, and effective interventions for MCI remain areas of active investigation.

This Research Topic aims to explore the multifaceted nature of MCI and to highlight innovative approaches to improve its detection, characterization, and management.
A particular focus of this Topic is the exploration of the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying MCI, including neuroinflammation, vascular contributions, mitochondrial dysfunction, and synaptic alterations. Research leveraging cutting-edge methodologies, such as single-cell omics, metabolomics, and advanced imaging techniques, will be especially relevant.

In addition to basic science and early detection, this Research Topic invites contributions exploring emerging therapeutic strategies for MCI. These should focus on pharmacological approaches aiming to slow or reverse cognitive decline. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as cognitive training programs, lifestyle modifications (exercise, nutrition, sleep), and psychosocial support will also be considered. Clinical trials and real-world implementation studies examining the efficacy and feasibility of these interventions are of particular interest.

Through this Research Topic, we seek to foster a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of MCI, bridging basic, translational, and clinical research to inform best practices and policy recommendations. The ultimate goal is to enhance patient-centered care, improve prognostic accuracy, and reduce the burden of dementia worldwide by intervening at the earliest possible stage.

Potential themes for contributions include (but are not limited to):
• Biomarkers for early detection of MCI
• Mechanistic insights into MCI pathophysiology
• Pharmacological interventions in MCI with their underlying mechanisms

The following topics will also be considered but should be submitted to specific section of Dementia Care:

• Longitudinal studies and progression to dementia
• Health disparities and equitable MCI care
• Lifestyle modifications and MCI risk reduction
• Cognitive training and digital health interventions

We look forward to receiving contributions from researchers, clinicians, and interdisciplinary teams working to advance the field of MCI research and care.

The primary goal of this Research Topic is to consolidate and highlight cutting-edge advances in understanding, early detection, and management of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and healthcare professionals, we aim to bridge the gap between basic science and clinical practice.

This collection will showcase innovative diagnostic tools, novel biomarkers, and interventions that address the biological mechanisms. Ultimately, this Research Topic seeks to inform clinical decision-making and shape future research priorities, with the overarching aim of improving outcomes for individuals at risk of or living with MCI and reducing the global burden of dementia.
Scope and information for authors

We welcome all the article types accepted by the journal, which contribute to the early identification of MCI through novel biomarkers (genetic, metabolic, or neuroimaging). Authors who intend to submit their manuscript should review the section scope prior to submission.

Studies addressing the heterogeneity of MCI, including subtypes and sex/gender differences, as well as longitudinal studies tracking progression to dementia, are encouraged to elucidate the natural history of MCI.

We also encourage submissions addressing disparities in MCI diagnosis and care, with a focus on how social determinants of health and access to care impact detection and outcomes in diverse populations. Studies proposing models of care that integrate personalized medicine, digital health, and interdisciplinary collaboration will enrich this discussion.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Mild Cognitive Impairment, Early Detection, Biomarkers, Pathophysiology, Interventions

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.