FeaturedNeuroscience·January 28, 2025·3 min readOral Microbiome May Influence Cognitive Decline and Brain HealthThe microbial ecosystems in our mouths may impact cognitive function as we age, with pathogenic bacteria linked to cognitive decline. Researchers found that beneficial bacteria, such as Neisseria, are associated with improved memory and attention, while harmful bacteria like Porphyromonas correlate with mild cognitive impairment.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·January 22, 2025·7 min readMaternal X Chromosome Accelerates Brain AgingNew research shows that female mice expressing only a maternal X chromosome experience faster brain aging and cognitive decline compared to those expressing both maternal and paternal X chromosomes. The maternal X accelerates aging in the hippocampus, a key region for memory and learning, and silences certain genes essential for brain health.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·January 21, 2025·5 min readMutations Drive Aging and Shape Epigenetic ClockA new study has uncovered a direct link between somatic mutations and epigenetic modifications, challenging established views on aging. Researchers found that random genetic mutations drive predictable changes in DNA methylation, offering new insights into the relationship between mutation accumulation and epigenetic clocks.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·January 17, 2025·5 min readMapping the Link Between Personality and Cognitive DeclineA new study has identified three psychological profiles that influence brain health, cognitive decline, and dementia risk in aging adults. Profiles with high protective traits, like purpose and openness, show better cognition and brain integrity, while those with low protective traits or high negative traits face accelerated brain atrophy and mental health issues.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·January 16, 2025·5 min readExercise Boosts Language Processing in Older AdultsIncreasing physical fitness improves language comprehension in older adults. Over six months, monolingual participants who followed a simple exercise program were 7% quicker at detecting words in language tests, highlighting the cognitive benefits of fitness.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·January 13, 2025·6 min readAlmost Half of Americans Over 55 Face Dementia RiskNew research finds that the lifetime risk of dementia after age 55 in Americans is 42%, significantly higher than previous estimates. Women face a higher risk (48%) than men (35%) due to their longer life expectancy. Risk factors include genetic predisposition, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and limited physical activity.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·January 13, 2025·5 min readIndoor Temperatures Affect Cognitive Function in Older AdultsA new study reveals that older adults experience the least attention difficulties when home temperatures remain between 68–75 ËšF (20–24 ËšC). Deviations beyond this range double the risk of attention lapses, highlighting how even current climate conditions may harm cognitive health.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·January 9, 2025·6 min readBrain Cell Genetics Shape Aging and Alzheimer’s RiskResearchers have identified genetic variations in brain cells, particularly microglia and oligodendrocytes, that influence both aging and Alzheimer’s risk. These variations impact how cells function as they age, potentially priming some individuals for dementia.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·January 8, 2025·4 min readEarly Reproductive Aging Alters Brain Connectivity, Emotional HealthResearch shows that accelerated reproductive ageing in females, such as early puberty or menopause, is linked to increased mental health risks at different life stages. Adolescents experiencing early puberty displayed unstable brain connectivity in regions tied to psychosis vulnerability, while middle-aged women with early menopause showed patterns linked to depression.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·January 7, 2025·4 min readVascular Risk Factors Affect Brain Health Differently in Older PeopleA new study reveals that common cardiovascular conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, known to damage brain blood vessels in younger populations, are not linked to increased brain vessel harm in individuals aged 90 and older. Researchers analyzed data from 267 participants in the National Institute on Aging’s 90+ Study and found no significant relationship between these risk factors and brain changes in this age group. Interestingly, blood pressure-lowering medications such as diuretics and beta blockers were associated with reduced risks of specific brain conditions, suggesting potential protective effects.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·January 5, 2025·6 min readMapping How Aging Affects Different Brain CellsNew research shows that not all brain cells age equally, with certain cells, such as those in the hypothalamus, experiencing more age-related genetic changes. These changes include reduced activity in neuronal circuitry genes and increased activity in immunity-related genes.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·December 21, 2024·8 min readRare Brain Cells Offer Clues to Aging and RejuvenationA study reveals how brain cell interactions influence aging, showing that rare cell types either accelerate or slow brain aging. Neural stem cells provide a rejuvenating effect on neighboring cells, while T cells drive aging through inflammation.Read More