Researchers find brain protein that may counteract aging effects

Study Uncovers Possible Cause of Brain Aging

Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) may have identified a key factor in brain aging. The focus is on a protein known as ferritin light chain 1 (FTL1), which is tagged as a “cognitively impaired pro-aging neuronal factor.”

The findings, published in the journal Nature Aging, examined gene and protein changes in the hippocampus of both young and old mice. The hippocampus plays a crucial role in learning and memory.

A press release from UCSF stated that older mice showed elevated levels of FTL1, which correlated with fewer connections between brain cells in the hippocampus and diminished cognitive abilities. Interestingly, when FTL1 levels were artificially increased in younger mice, their brains began to resemble those of older mice, both in functionality and behavior.

Moreover, reducing FTL1 in older mice seemed to “restore” some youthful qualities—boosting neuronal connections and improving performance on memory tests. The study noted that FTL1 also appeared to slow down the metabolism of hippocampal cells in older specimens.

However, researchers discovered that using metabolic stimulating compounds could counteract these negative effects on the cells. Dr. Saul Villeda, the Associate Director and Senior Author of the study, expressed optimism about these findings, referring to them as “reversal of obstacles.” He emphasized that it’s more than just slowing down or preventing symptoms of aging.

In a recent interview, Dr. Paul Saffier from New Jersey’s Coaxial Neurosurgery Specialists called the results “really interesting.” He mentioned the connection between protein accumulation and neurodegenerative disorders, specifically citing Alzheimer’s disease, which is linked to the buildup of amyloid proteins in the brain.

Saffier noted, “If there is a mechanism that can slow and reverse the accumulation of this FTL1 protein in the hippocampus, it might enhance cognition.” He also pointed out that prior studies indicate regulating sugar and protein levels could slow the aging process.