Anti-aging protein injection enhance monkeys' memory: Study
Findings from a recent study revealed that injections of klotho, a naturally occurring protein in mammals that decreases as they age, can actually enhance the cognitive abilities of elderly monkeys. Before being tested on primates, klotho had already demonstrated promising cognitive benefits in mice. The findings, published on July 3 in Nature Aging, could lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases in humans.
Study holds promise for humans' anti-aging treatments
This study led by American researchers holds promise for restorative klotho treatments, as they could potentially yield similar cognitive benefits in aging humans. "Given the close genetic and physiological parallels between primates and humans, this could suggest potential applications for treating human cognitive disorders," Marc Busche, a neurologist at University College London who was not involved in the study, told Nature.
Protein named after Greek mythological figure
The protein is named after Clotho, one of the goddesses of the Three Fates in Greek mythology. Clotho was considered the spinner of the thread of life and had a vital role in shaping the fate of all living beings.
Process involved in the study
The study involved assessing the cognitive abilities of the aging rhesus monkeys by conducting a spatial memory test before and after administering a single klotho injection. The monkeys had to remember the location of a hidden treat in various wells. Prior to the injection, they correctly identified the wells approximately 45% of the time, while after the injection, their performance improved to around 60%.
Researchers anticipate human clinical trials
While the findings are promising, it is important to approach them with some caution. The effectiveness of the protein and the reasons behind its positive impact are still not fully understood. Further research is necessary to uncover the intricate mechanisms responsible for these cognitive benefits. Researchers are optimistic about the future and eagerly anticipate the protein's journey toward human clinical trials.
This could prove beneficial for treating Alzheimer's
There is hope that klotho treatments could be beneficial in addressing cognitive diseases like Alzheimer's. A recent study found that individuals with higher levels of klotho naturally have less cognitive impairment associated with Alzheimer's. This discovery suggests that klotho may play a crucial role in mitigating cognitive decline and opens up possibilities for potential Alzheimer's treatments in the future.
