Science continues to work hard on understanding ageing and ways to prevent age-related complaints. Researchers do not always agree yet on the exact processes behind ageing and how best to combat them. Even so, an increasing number of clear patterns and mechanisms are known that form the basis for new treatments against age-related disorders.
An important area of focus is reducing the consequences of arteriosclerosis, a condition in which fatty plaques narrow the blood vessels and increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke. A company is working on a medicine that can actually shrink these plaques, as existing treatments mainly slow down growth but do not remove enough plaque. This could have a major impact on our health and lifespan.
The effect of the immune system on the brain is also receiving increasing attention. Older T cells (a type of immune cell) can release substances that impair memory and cognitive function. Scientists are investigating how this process can be stopped or reversed, offering hope for preventing memory loss in the elderly.
In addition, genetics play a role in ageing and the risk of diseases such as Alzheimer's. Certain variants of an important gene, APOE, ensure that brain cells are more resistant to damage. Discoveries of this kind can contribute to new strategies for slowing down brain ageing.
These developments are important for anyone who wants to age healthily. By better understanding how the body and brain change over time, we will soon be able to work more targetedly towards a longer and healthier life.
Source: Reason
