Based on our data on the sequential events of thrombosis, CAA and cognitive decline in eNOS+/- mice, we further propose the following theory: that chronic partial eNOS deficiency causes endothelial and platelet dysfunction that ultimately leads to the thrombotic cerebral infarctions and associated BBB breakdown that facilitate Aβ production and impair Aβ clearance [38]. This evidence concerns the gene NOS3 and Mental deterioration.