Xiamen scientists from China have pinpointed a protein called Menin, the decline of which may be linked to aging processes. Experiments conducted on mice indicated that restoring its levels led to improvements in cognitive functions, motor coordination, and overall tissue health, while also mitigating some age-related changes. These findings are published in the journal PLOS Biology.
The researchers primarily focused on the hypothalamus, a small brain structure responsible for metabolic processes, hormonal balance, sleep regulation, body temperature, and stress responses. Recently, the hypothalamus has attracted significant scientific attention as a key regulator of aging.
The study authors observed a substantial decrease in Menin protein levels within the neurons of the ventromedial hypothalamus – an area involved in regulating metabolism and systemic aging – in aging mice. Notably, this decline was not observed in other supporting brain cells.
To investigate Menin’s role, mice with reduced expression of this protein were developed. These rodents exhibited signs of premature aging, including increased neuroinflammation, decreased bone mineral density, thinning skin, impaired memory and motor coordination, and a shortened lifespan.
Furthermore, an interaction between Menin and the amino acid D-serine was identified. D-serine functions as a neurotransmitter crucial for neuronal activity, learning, and memory formation. A reduction in Menin was associated with a decrease in D-serine synthesis.
Subsequently, the researchers attempted to reverse the aging effects. Elderly mice (approximately 20 months old) received a Menin gene infusion into their hypothalamus. Within a month, improvements were noted in their memory, balance, as well as the condition of their skin and bones. Concurrently, D-serine levels increased in the hippocampus, a brain region responsible for memory.
A separate experiment demonstrated that a three-week course of D-serine supplementation enhanced the cognitive abilities of older mice but had no impact on age-related changes in their skin and bones. This suggests that Menin exerts its influence through multiple biological pathways.
The study authors emphasize that their research was exclusively performed on animals. Therefore, it is premature to discuss the potential for slowing aging in humans. Nevertheless, the obtained data reinforce the notion that the brain plays a more significant role in regulating aging processes than previously believed.
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