The subtle pulses of tiny blood vessels in the brain can now be mapped in greater detail than ever before using a new imaging method.

It's the first noninvasive tool to measure the expansion and contraction of microscopic arteries and capillaries in the living human brain.

Previous studies suggest that arterial pulses in the cerebrovascular system are predictive of dementia or cognitive decline. This technique could reveal whether that's true or not.

Scientists can now identify dynamic changes across the entire cerebrovascular tree, from the largest branches to the tiniest twigs and offshoots at their ends.

"Arterial pulsation is like the brain's natural pump, helping to move fluids and clear waste," explains neurologist and senior author Danny Wang from USC.

"Our new method allows

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