Researchers are increasingly focusing on microglia, a type of immune cell in the brain. These cells are important for clearing away harmful substances and maintaining nerve tissue. As they age, microglia can lose their normal function. They then become senescent, which means they become old and less well-functioning. This can lead to inflammation and damage in the brain.
These changes in microglia can contribute to the development of brain disorders such as dementia. When microglia do not function properly, they are less supportive of the repair and protection of neurons. This can adversely affect memory and other brain functions. The signalling of these cells and their role in age-related diseases is relatively new in research.
Techniques have already been developed to selectively remove these old, poorly functioning microglia. This can help make the brain tissue healthy again by allowing new microglia to return. Unfortunately, these methods are not yet widely used in clinical practice. More research and development is needed to make these treatments accessible.
For anyone who wants to age healthily, it is important to know that the brain continues to change actively. Preventing inflammation and maintaining healthy brain cells can help to slow down cognitive decline. Microglia appear to play an important role in this.
Source: Reason
