Calcium would have a key role in the process of age-related memory loss, according to a recent study.
You might think that memory loss is related to the gradual disappearance of brain cells. Nevertheless, it is not the case.
According to the results of a studyconducted by researchers at the University of Cambridge and published in the journal Aging Cella crucial factor in the loss of cognitive functions such as memory or learning would be the level of calcium present in certain specific cells of the brain.
The team of researchers focused on synapses, these electro-chemical connections between neurons in the central nervous system and on the level of calcium in the hippocampus, a part of the brain necessary for learning and memory. .
Considerable potential for treatment leads
The study was conducted on mice carrying a calcium-sensitive fluorescent protein in the presynaptic part of the hippocampus. These mice, aged 6, 12, 18 and 24 months, were subjected to maze and object recognition exercises.
An increase in pre-synaptic calcium levels in the hippocampus of young mice caused them to behave like old mice. While a reduction in pre-synaptic calcium levels has “rejuvenated” older mice, which is most fascinating.
The researchers thus highlighted a clear correlation between cognitive ability and pre-synaptic calcium levels. Results that have considerable potential for the development of treatments for memory loss and cognitive function in humans.
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