November 17, 2016.
Researchers have just discovered that transfusion of young blood plasma into older mice has rejuvenating properties. This discovery could open a new way to fight Alzheimer’s disease.
Plasma, a fountain of youth?
A team of American researchers has just carried out an unprecedented experiment. These have succeeded in proving that the injection of blood from a young person into the body of an older being, in this case a mouse, could have rejuvenating abilities.
In this experiment, researchers at the pharmaceutical company Alkahest took blood plasma samples from healthy 18-year-olds and injected them into 12-month-old mice, which is about 50 years in human age. For three weeks, these mice received two injections of plasma per day. Their behavior was then observed closely.
A new avenue for treating Alzheimer’s
The rodents studied showed striking signs of rejuvenation, compared to mice of the same age who had not received blood plasma. In addition to behavioral signs, scientists also observed improved memory in these mice.
This experiment illustrates the properties of blood plasma. This vital substance contains several thousand proteins, which can disappear with age and be replaced by more harmful molecules. ” We observe that the aging of the plasma leads to an increase in inflammatory proteins which cause cell death. The researchers explained in an interview with CBS. In order to observe the consequences of plasma on humans, Alkhahest researchers announced that they had started a clinical trial at Stanford University. 18 people with Alzheimer’s disease volunteered to start this experience.
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