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Antibodies for Algernon
Scientists at Stanford University say they have developed antibodies that block a specific gene linked to aging brain – and that it gives older mice the cognitive prowess of the younger ones.
"The mice have become smarter," said Tony Wyss-Coray, lead author. "Blocking [the gene] CD22 on their microglia restored their cognitive function in younger mice. CD22 is a new target that we believe can be exploited for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. "
Dr. Mouse
In the results published in the journal Nature – and that New atlas called "a superb job of research" – scientists have identified a gene called CD22. It occurs in mice and humans and apparently interferes with the ability of some cells to promote normal brain activity. The gene was also strikingly more prevalent in aged mice than in young mice.
With this knowledge, researchers designed CD22-blocking antibodies and injected them into the brains of tested mice. After one month, the mice to which the antibodies had been injected performed better than their peers on several intelligence tests.
Gene Hack
Research is far from human trials, but the implication is that it may be possible to reverse some cognitive effects of aging, including, according to researchers, those associated with Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease .
"We think we may have found a way to put these cells back on track and make them work as before when we were young," said Wyss-Coray in his statement.
READ MORE: Stanford team develops brain regenerating antibodies that allow older mice to think like children[[[[New atlas]
More on cerebral aging: Neurologists may have discovered a key ally in the fight against brain aging
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