The perivascular space is a conduit for cerebrospinal fluid flow in humans: A proof-of-principle report

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2024 Oct 15;121(42):e2407246121. doi: 10.1073/pnas.2407246121. Epub 2024 Oct 7.

Abstract

The glymphatic pathway was defined in rodents as a network of perivascular spaces (PVSs) that facilitates organized distribution of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) into the brain parenchyma. To date, perivascular CSF and cerebral interstitial fluid exchange has not been shown in humans. Using intrathecal gadolinium contrast-enhanced MRI, we show that contrast-enhanced CSF moves through the PVS into the parenchyma, supporting the existence of a glymphatic pathway in humans.

Keywords: MRI; cerebrospinal fluid; glymphatic; perivascular space.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brain / diagnostic imaging
  • Brain / physiology
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid* / metabolism
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid* / physiology
  • Contrast Media
  • Female
  • Gadolinium
  • Glymphatic System* / diagnostic imaging
  • Glymphatic System* / physiology
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging* / methods
  • Male
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Gadolinium