Scientists have discovered an important gene that may contribute to healthy brain ageing. It concerns the APOE2 variant, a gene that enables brain cells to better repair damage to their genetic material, DNA. As a result, the ageing processes in these cells are slower and they continue to function properly for longer.
Normally, the APOE gene was primarily associated with the clearance of fats in the body. This new study shows that APOE2 mainly helps to protect the genes in brain cells against damage. This is important because, as we get older, DNA damage increases and our brain function often declines.
By better protecting DNA, APOE2 can reduce the harmful effects of ageing and age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's. The findings offer new opportunities to develop treatments that mimic this protective effect. In time, this could help to keep brains healthy for longer and combat dementia.
For people interested in healthy ageing, this research is interesting. It highlights that the preservation of genetic information in brain cells plays a key role in keeping the brain healthy for longer. Such an insight gives hope for better ways to slow down ageing.
Source: Neuroscience News
