Scientists have developed an experimental treatment based on extracellular vesicles derived from human neural stem cells that could reduce age-related brain inflammation.
The drug developers pointed out that with age, a low-grade chronic inflammation develops in the brain, which is associated with memory impairment and cognitive decline. Therefore, they developed a drug in the form of a nasal spray containing extracellular vesicles—microscopic particles containing therapeutic molecules—and gave the drug to laboratory mice to determine its effects.
After the treatment was applied, signs of inflammation and oxidative stress decreased in the hippocampus, a brain region responsible for memory and learning. The animals also showed a decrease in the activity of molecular pathways considered key drivers of age-related brain changes. At the same time, the activity of genes associated with energy metabolism and neuronal protection increased.
Further analysis showed that the microRNA of extracellular vesicles (exosomes) inhibits mechanisms that promote chronic inflammation. Moreover, the researchers documented a widespread restructuring of immune cells in the brain, specifically microglia, which became less inclined to support inflammatory processes.
These changes were also accompanied by improvements in memory and cognitive function in laboratory animals. Researchers believe this treatment could be a promising way to combat age-related brain decline.
