Brain Protein Linked to Aging and Cognitive Decline in Mice

Declining levels of a brain protein called Menin may drive aging, triggering inflammation, memory issues, and physical deterioration in mice. Research published in *PLOS Biology* indicates that restoring Menin reversed several aging signs. A simple amino acid supplement also improved cognitive function in the mice.

Menin levels decreased significantly in the hypothalamus of aging mice. This decline occurred specifically in neurons within the ventromedial hypothalamus, a region associated with metabolism and systemic aging. The hypothalamus is a small brain region that regulates metabolism, hormones, body temperature, sleep, and stress responses.

When Menin levels dropped, D-serine production also decreased. D-serine is an amino acid and neurotransmitter important for learning and memory. Researchers found that reduced Menin activity led to lower activity of an enzyme needed for D-serine synthesis. D-serine is found in foods like soybeans, eggs, fish, and nuts.

Restoring Menin in elderly mice improved learning, memory, balance, skin thickness, and bone density within 30 days. These improvements correlated with increased D-serine levels in the hippocampus, a brain area critical for memory. Supplementing older mice with D-serine alone improved cognitive performance but did not reverse physical aging markers.

This research was conducted in mice. Scientists do not yet know if boosting Menin or supplementing with D-serine can safely slow aging or improve cognition in humans. More research is needed to understand the long-term effects and potential side effects of altering these brain pathways.