A new nasal spray may reverse brain aging and restore memory. Researchers at Texas A&M University developed the treatment. It aims to calm inflammation and restore the brain’s energy systems. Memory and cognitive function improved for months after two doses in test models.
The therapy uses microscopic biological particles called extracellular vesicles (EVs). These EVs carry microRNAs, which regulate biological processes in the brain. The nasal spray delivers the treatment directly to brain tissue. This method bypasses the brain's protective barrier.
Once in the brain, the treatment targets immune cells involved in chronic inflammation. It suppressed inflammatory systems linked to age-related brain inflammation. The therapy also restored activity in mitochondria. Mitochondria are cell structures that produce energy. Aging and inflammation can damage them.
Improved mitochondrial function helped brain cells recover their ability to process and store information. Behavioral tests showed treated models performed better on memory and recognition tasks. They identified familiar objects and recognized new ones more successfully. These effects appeared quickly and lasted for months after only two doses.
This approach could lead to new therapies for conditions like dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Annual dementia cases in the United States are projected to increase significantly by 2060. The study found similar treatment responses across both sexes. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) supported this research.
Related stories
The Hum Phenomenon: Internal Auditory System May Be the Cause
Research suggests the mysterious global phenomenon known as The Hum may originate from low-frequency tinnitus within the auditory system, not external sources.
Coffee Compounds May Activate Cellular Receptor for Stress Protection
Research from Texas A&M suggests coffee compounds activate the NR4A1 receptor, which protects cells from stress and may explain coffee's health benefits.
The Hum Phenomenon Explained by Low-Frequency Tinnitus
New research suggests the mysterious worldwide phenomenon known as The Hum is often a form of low-frequency tinnitus originating within the auditory system, not from external sources.