A recent study from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro and the University of São Paulo has identified hevin, a molecule secreted by astrocytes, as a potential agent to reverse cognitive decline linked to aging and dementia. Researchers observed that increasing hevin levels in mice enhanced cognitive function without impacting beta-amyloid plaques, commonly associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
“Hevin is a well-known molecule involved in neural plasticity,” said co-author Flávia Alcantara Gomes, PhD. The study indicates that astrocytes, which support neuronal function, play a crucial role in cognitive health. The research highlights a new potential target for Alzheimer’s treatments, emphasizing the need for therapies that manipulate hevin levels in astrocytes to combat cognitive deficits (Aging Cell) and (Agência FAPESP).
New Treatment Reverses Alzheimer’s Disease Signs
Research from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania reveals that a chaperone molecule, 4-phenylbutyrate (PBA), may reverse signs of Alzheimer’s in mice. This fatty-acid molecule acts as a chemical chaperone, facilitating normal protein regulation processes in the brain. Injections of PBA improved cognitive performance and restored normal proteostasis even in late-stage disease models.
“By generally improving neuronal and cellular health, we can mitigate or delay disease progression,” stated senior author Nirinjini Naidoo, PhD. The study found that PBA treatment not only improved memory function but also reduced amyloid beta plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s. PBA is FDA-approved for other uses and shows promise as a therapeutic option for Alzheimer’s treatment (Aging Biology) and (NIH).
Brain Ageing, Cognition, and Diet
The relationship between diet and cognitive health is gaining traction, with studies indicating that certain food-based nootropics may help mitigate age-related memory decline. Increased oxidative stress and a reduced antioxidant defense system have been linked to cognitive decline, presenting an opportunity to explore dietary interventions.
Research has shown that antioxidants and specific nutrients, such as polyphenols from fruits like strawberries and blueberries, can positively influence brain health. Clinical studies have suggested that diets rich in antioxidants may slow cognitive decline, although results can vary. Notable food-based nootropics include Ginkgo Biloba and Panax Ginseng, both associated with improved cognitive function (PMC).
While the promise of food-based nootropics is notable, further investigation is necessary to standardize their use in clinical settings
A recent study from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro and the University of São Paulo has identified hevin, a molecule secreted by astrocytes, as a potential agent to reverse cognitive decline linked to aging and dementia. Researchers observed that increasing hevin levels in mice enhanced cognitive function without impacting beta-amyloid plaques, commonly associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
“Hevin is a well-known molecule involved in neural plasticity,” said co-author Flávia Alcantara Gomes, PhD. The study indicates that astrocytes, which support neuronal function, play a crucial role in cognitive health. The research highlights a new potential target for Alzheimer’s treatments, emphasizing the need for therapies that manipulate hevin levels in astrocytes to combat cognitive deficits (Aging Cell) and (Agência FAPESP).
New Treatment Reverses Alzheimer’s Disease Signs
Research from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania reveals that a chaperone molecule, 4-phenylbutyrate (PBA), may reverse signs of Alzheimer’s in mice. This fatty-acid molecule acts as a chemical chaperone, facilitating normal protein regulation processes in the brain. Injections of PBA improved cognitive performance and restored normal proteostasis even in late-stage disease models.
“By generally improving neuronal and cellular health, we can mitigate or delay disease progression,” stated senior author Nirinjini Naidoo, PhD. The study found that PBA treatment not only improved memory function but also reduced amyloid beta plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s. PBA is FDA-approved for other uses and shows promise as a therapeutic option for Alzheimer’s treatment (Aging Biology) and (NIH).
Brain Ageing, Cognition, and Diet
The relationship between diet and cognitive health is gaining traction, with studies indicating that certain food-based nootropics may help mitigate age-related memory decline. Increased oxidative stress and a reduced antioxidant defense system have been linked to cognitive decline, presenting an opportunity to explore dietary interventions.
Research has shown that antioxidants and specific nutrients, such as polyphenols from fruits like strawberries and blueberries, can positively influence brain health. Clinical studies have suggested that diets rich in antioxidants may slow cognitive decline, although results can vary. Notable food-based nootropics include Ginkgo Biloba and Panax Ginseng, both associated with improved cognitive function (PMC).
While the promise of food-based nootropics is notable, further investigation is necessary to standardize their use in clinical settings
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