The DORIAN GRAY project investigates the complex link between Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD) and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) in ageing populations. The main goal is to develop early, personalized, and scalable interventions to slow cognitive decline in patients with cardiovascular risk.
Aligned with Horizon Europe’s plan for non-communicable disease (NCD) prevention, DORIAN GRAY focuses on:

• Designing a multidomain intervention to delay CVD-related MCI progression
• Developing digital solutions to enhance adherence and monitoring

The project brings together 25 European partners across academia, healthcare, research, and industry. The consortium’s expertise spans AI, neurology, cardiology, digital health, and behavioral sciences, creating a robust ecosystem for innovation in personalized preventive medicine.

Methodology and Innovation

The project integrates AI technologies and digital health tools to deliver a comprehensive and user-centered prevention model. It is structured into three main pillars:

1. AI-Powered Risk Stratification
   Predictive models will leverage biomarkers, clinical imaging, and wearable data to identify early signs of MCI in patients with cardiovascular risk factors.
2. PORTRAIT Digital Twin Platform
   An AI-based simulation platform modeling disease trajectories to tailor interventions. It continuously adapts to each patient’s evolving health status.
3. MIRROR App – Coaching & Exergaming
   A mobile app using avatar-guided gamified sessions (exergames) that combine physical and cognitive training. It adapts to user progress to foster engagement and behavioral change.

Development

• Pilot Study: small-scale testing for usability, engagement, and feasibility
• Clinical Trial: larger-scale trial to assess impact on cognition, quality of life, and biomarkers
• Future Integration: transition into real-life care pathways and public health strategies

Expected Impacts

• Patients & Caregivers: improved early detection and behavioral intervention tools
• Healthcare Providers: data-driven decision support systems
• Policy & Research: evidence-based input for long-term prevention programs