Researchers from the National University of Singapore (NUS Medicine) led by Professor Brian Kennedy have made an important discovery: a natural compound that plays a role in regulating lifespan may serve as a powerful tool in the fight against dementia. Instead of focusing on the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, the scientists proposed a new strategy aimed at the underlying mechanisms of biological aging.
At the center of their attention was calcium alpha-ketoglutarate (CaAKG), which is produced in the body but decreases with age. Experiments showed that replenishing this compound can significantly improve cognitive functions.
The study identified three main actions of CaAKG:
1. Restoration of neuronal connections. This molecule promotes the restoration of synapses—microscopic "bridges" between neurons that transmit information. Their destruction is one of the main causes of memory decline.
2. Cleansing of cells. As we age, neurons accumulate protein "waste." CaAKG activates autophagy—a mechanism that allows cells to eliminate damaged structures, facilitating effective self-cleansing of the brain.
3. Restoration of associative connections. The compound helps the brain to combine separate fragments of information into a coherent perception. This is critically important for everyday functioning, including remembering details of conversations and spatial orientation.
Unlike many existing drugs that merely mask symptoms, the new approach aims to improve the overall resilience of the brain. The results of this study, published in the prestigious journal Aging Cell, open new horizons for the development of therapies capable of making the nervous system less susceptible to age-related changes.
