A recent scientific study has revealed a new method that partially restores the ability of aging neural stem cells to divide.
The researchers noted that, with age, neural stem cells lose their ability to actively proliferate, leading to a decrease in neurogenesis and a gradual decline in cognitive functions. However, they discovered a new mechanism for cell rejuvenation based on the protein DMTF1, a transcription factor whose levels decrease with age-related telomere shortening and cellular DNA damage.
Scientists have found that artificially increasing levels of the DMTF1 protein in the body restored cell division and helped reduce the effects of telomere shortening, which is responsible for cell aging.
The researchers explained that the DMTF1 protein regulates the genes Arid2 and Ss18, which are components of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex. Through these mechanisms, the DMTF1 protein maintains the activity of genes that control the cell life cycle. When DMTF1 levels decrease, these epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted, and cells enter a state of dormancy or die. Restoring protein expression led to the restoration of cell activity.
The experiments mentioned were conducted on laboratory mice, so the researchers indicated that it is still unclear whether DMTF1 activation is safe for human use, as excessive stimulation of cell division may be associated with cancer risks.
