A novel approach to reverse aspects of aging-related decline in the brain and cognitive function through microbes in the gut has been proposed by research at APC Microbiome Ireland (APC), University College Cork (UCC).
This pioneering research opens up a potentially new therapeutic avenue in the form of microbial-based interventions to slow brain aging and associated cognitive problems .
Mouse tests
In this latest mouse study, the authors show that by transplanting microbes from young animals to old animals, they could rejuvenate aspects of the brain and immune function . The study begins on possibilities in the future to modulate the gut microbiota as a therapeutic target to influence brain health.
The work was carried out by researchers in the Brain-Gut-Microbiota laboratory at APC led by John F. Cryan , Vice President of Research and Innovation, University College Cork, as well as Principal Investigator at APC Microbiome Ireland and the SFI Research Center, based at University College Cork and Teagasc Moorepark. According to Cryan:
Previous research published by APC and other groups internationally has shown that the gut microbiome plays a key role in aging and the aging process. This new research is a potential game changer, as we have established that the microbiome can be harnessed to reverse age-related brain decline. We also see evidence of better learning ability and cognitive function. Although it is very exciting, it is still early and much more work is needed to see how these findings could be translated into humans.