A study by researchers from Nagoya University in Japan reveals that age-related cognitive decline is linked to excessive activation of certain neurons, rather than a decrease in neuronal activity. This groundbreaking research, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, suggests that dietary changes aimed at reducing neuronal hyperactivation could potentially slow age-related cognitive decline.
Typically, cognitive decline with age has been attributed to reduced neuronal activity. However, this new study challenges that notion by demonstrating that some neurons actually become hyperactive as we age. The research, led by Associate Professor Kentaro Noma, focused on nematodes, which share many genetic and neural mechanisms with humans. The nematodes were used to study the effects of hyperactive neurons on cognitive function.
The researchers observed that aging nematodes exhibited abnormal activation in two types of neurons involved in associative learning. These findings challenge the traditional view that cognitive decline is driven by a lack of neural activity. Instead, the study suggests that excessive neuronal activation disrupts normal brain function.
Additionally, the researchers found that modifying the nematodes’ diet could reduce neuronal hyperactivation and improve their behavior, potentially offering insights into how humans might address cognitive decline through dietary interventions.
Associate Professor Noma emphasized that while the focus has historically been on reducing neural activity with age, these findings suggest that targeting hyperactive neurons could be key to improving brain health in aging individuals. The research team is continuing their studies to explore ways to manage neuronal hyperactivation and its effects on brain function as part of the broader effort to understand aging.
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