Research on Umbilical Cord Blood and Cognitive Function
Investigating Memory and Learning in the Aging Brain
Researchers at Stanford University are exploring whether umbilical cord blood or its components can enhance memory and learning in the aging brain. As individuals age, cognitive function often declines, a hallmark of many neurological disorders. The hippocampus, a brain region critical for long-term memory and learning, is particularly vulnerable to the negative impacts of aging. This sensitivity is evident at various levels, including the impairment of synapses, which are the gaps between nerve cells that facilitate signal transmission. Additionally, there is a decrease in the activation of genes that respond to diverse cellular stimuli in the aging brain.
Revitalizing Aging Tissue Systems
Interestingly, previous research has demonstrated that various aging tissue systems—such as cardiac, skeletal, pancreatic, and bone tissues—can be rejuvenated using young cells or their associated factors. For instance, historical studies indicated that fusing the circulatory systems of young and old mice resulted in the young blood revitalizing the older mouse. Despite the discovery of rejuvenating cells and factors in various tissues, none have yet been identified for the brain.
Insights from Young Blood Plasma
Research Hypothesis and Findings
Tony Wyss-Coray’s research group posited that utilizing blood plasma from young developmental stages could shed light on factors crucial for revitalizing the aging brain and enhancing cognitive function. Their recent findings, published in Nature, have garnered attention from various scientific publications, including Science Magazine.
Improved Performance in Learning and Memory Tests
In their experiments, the team administered human umbilical cord plasma to mice at various life stages. The plasma was injected into the hippocampus every four days for two weeks. Following the injections, both aging mice and non-injected controls underwent maze tests to evaluate their navigation skills, alongside other learning and memory assessments. The results indicated that mice receiving umbilical cord blood plasma exhibited significantly better performance in these cognitive tests.
Discovery of TIMP2 and Its Antiaging Effects
This raises the question: what elements in umbilical cord blood are diminished in our circulation as we age? The research team conducted a series of experiments that identified a protein called tissue metallopeptidase inhibitor 2 (TIMP2) as vital for the rejuvenation of the aging brain. When old mice were injected with TIMP2, their performance on memory and learning tests matched that of those injected with human umbilical cord plasma.
Potential of Multiple Factors in Cognitive Revitalization
Recent findings also suggest that other compounds in human umbilical cord blood plasma may possess revitalizing properties, indicating that the process is likely influenced by multiple factors rather than a single entity. This research implies that elements present in early life could play a crucial role in revitalizing the aging brain.
Conclusion
The ongoing investigation into umbilical cord blood and its components offers promising insights into potential strategies for improving cognitive function in the elderly. As research progresses, it may reveal new avenues for addressing age-related cognitive decline.
References
(1) Kaiser, J. (2017, April 19). Protein isolated from human cord blood has antiaging effects on memory in mice. Science Magazine. Retrieved from http://www.sciencemag.org/news/2017/04/protein-isolated-human-cord-blood-has-antiaging-effects-memory-mice-0.
(2) Castellano, J.M., et al. 2017. Human umbilical cord blood plasma proteins revitalize hippocampal function in aged mice. Nature. 544(7651): 488-492.