Research on Umbilical Cord Blood and Aging Brain Function
Understanding Cognitive Decline in Aging
Researchers at Stanford University are investigating whether umbilical cord blood or its components can enhance memory and learning in the aging brain. Cognitive function declines significantly as we age, a hallmark of various neurological disorders. The hippocampus, a brain region crucial for long-term memory and learning, is particularly vulnerable to age-related decline. Changes in synapses, the connections between nerve cells that facilitate signal transmission, and a reduction in genes activated by cellular stimuli contribute to cognitive impairment as we age.
Revitalizing Aging Tissue Systems
Studies have indicated that several aging tissue systems, including cardiac, skeletal, pancreatic, and bone tissues, can be rejuvenated by introducing young cells or their factors. For instance, research demonstrated that fusing the circulatory systems of young and old mice resulted in the revitalization of the older mouse through young blood. However, similar rejuvenating factors for the brain have yet to be identified.
Investigating Blood Plasma for Cognitive Revitalization
Tony Wyss-Coray’s research team proposed that blood plasma from younger developmental stages might reveal factors essential for revitalizing the aging brain and enhancing cognitive function. Their findings were published in the journal Nature and have attracted attention from various online publications, including Science Magazine.
Effects of Umbilical Cord Plasma on Learning and Memory
The researchers administered human umbilical cord plasma to mice at various stages of their lives. The injections occurred every four days for two weeks directly into the hippocampus. Following the treatments, both aging mice and non-injected control mice underwent maze navigation and other learning and memory assessments. The results showed that mice receiving umbilical cord blood plasma exhibited significantly improved performance in these cognitive tests.
Identifying Key Proteins with Anti-Aging Properties
The question arises: what components in umbilical cord blood are diminished in our circulation as we age? The research team conducted multiple experiments and identified a protein called tissue metallopeptidase inhibitor 2 (TIMP2) as crucial for rejuvenating the aging brain. When older mice were injected with TIMP2, their performance on memory and learning tests matched that of mice treated with human umbilical cord plasma.
Exploring Additional Factors for Cognitive Improvement
Current research continues to uncover various factors within human umbilical cord blood plasma that may possess revitalizing properties. This suggests that cognitive enhancement may not rely solely on a single component; rather, multiple factors might work together to improve memory and cognitive function. The study implies that elements present in early life could play a vital role in rejuvenating the aging brain.
Conclusion
The ongoing research at Stanford University highlights the potential of umbilical cord blood and its components in combating cognitive decline associated with aging. As scientists delve deeper into this area, the findings could pave the way for innovative treatments aimed at enhancing brain health in older adults.
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.