2023-07-04 02:02:46
Against mental deterioration: Klotho protein shows promising effects in counteracting mental decline in old age, as demonstrated in a recent study with rhesus monkeys. The researchers administered a single subcutaneous injection of the protein, resulting in significantly improved memory performance in the aging primates for more than two weeks. This finding supports previous studies with mice and raises the possibility that the “fountain of youth” protein may also have similar benefits for humans, according to the researchers publishing their findings in “Nature Aging”.
As individuals age, mental performance and memory naturally decline, even without neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s. While brain training, a healthy lifestyle, and an active social life can help counteract this decline to some extent, it cannot completely prevent it. The complexity of aging processes and the intricacies of our brain make it challenging for scientists to identify effective and concrete pharmacological interventions or therapies.
In recent years, a protein hormone called Klotho has emerged as a key focus in aging research. While primarily located in the cell membrane of various organs, Klotho is also released into the bloodstream as a hormone. It influences insulin balance, signal chains for growth factors, and receptor functions. Although Klotho cannot cross the blood-brain barrier, it appears to affect mental performance and the brain. Studies have shown that individuals with increased Klotho levels, due to genetics or other factors, experience improved mental performance as they age, delayed neuropathological symptoms, and a reduced risk of senile dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Experiments with mice have further demonstrated the positive effects of administering the Klotho protein via syringe. The old mice displayed enhanced mental performance, increased synaptic plasticity, and a lower risk of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
To determine if the Klotho protein could also combat mental deterioration in humans, the researchers conducted tests with aging rhesus monkeys. These monkeys have similar genetic diversity and higher cognitive functions, making them suitable test subjects. The researchers administered a single dose of ten micrograms of protein per kilogram of body weight subcutaneously to 18 elderly rhesus monkeys. Memory tests were conducted before and at regular intervals after the injection, challenging the monkeys to remember the location of food hidden in identical-looking containers.
The results were remarkable. Just four hours after the Klotho injection, the senior rhesus monkeys exhibited significant improvement in memory tests compared to their performance prior to the injection. Control animals that received a saline solution did not show the same improvements. The positive effects on memory performance lasted for at least two weeks, particularly in more demanding tasks that tested the aging animals’ cognitive abilities.
The researchers concluded that administering Klotho protein can improve mental performance in aging rhesus monkeys, with the effects lasting beyond the protein’s half-life in the blood. This suggests that the protein may induce longer-lasting changes in brain metabolism and other functions crucial for cognitive performance.
These findings raise the possibility that humans could also benefit from Klotho protein treatment. Restoring normal childhood levels of the hormone in the blood appears to be the most promising approach. However, further research is needed to determine the exact mechanisms by which the Klotho protein influences brain functions, as it does not directly penetrate the brain. Additionally, investigations into lower concentrations of the protein and the duration of its effects are necessary before it can be considered for therapeutic use in aging individuals.
The study published in “Nature Aging” offers hope for countering mental deterioration and improving cognitive abilities in old age. While more research is required, the potential benefits of the Klotho protein in preserving mental sharpness are encouraging.]
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