Increased exercise boosts key protein that stops dementia
INCREASED exercise helps boost a protein in the brain that protects against dementia, new research has found.
By BRUCE THAIN
The US study could explain why physical activity helps ward off Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists say the research could lead to a new therapy for the incurable condition, giving hope to the hundreds of thousands suffering from the illness in the UK.
Experiments on mice found running on an exercise wheel increased production of the protein, called SIRT3, which is found in mitochondria, the powerhouse of cells.
It is part of a family of genes called sirtuins, which have been found to occur more commonly in men over the age of 100 than in the general population. According to scientists, sirtuins are playing a growing role in research into ageing.
In another study, examining nematode worms and fruit flies, sirtuins have been linked to longevity. Increasing production can extend life by 50 per cent. The new research shows how exercise may improve brain cell function by producing more SIRT3.
Dr Mark Mattson, of Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, found the protein helped brain cells resist the energy-depleting stress caused by neurotoxins. As we age, or develop neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, our brain cells may not produce sufficient energy to remain fully functional.
Our findings suggest that SIRT3 plays pivotal roles in adaptive responses of neurons to physiological challenges and resistance to degenerationDr Mark Mattson
The research showed SIRT3 protected mice brains from degeneration. Mice which did not produce the protein became highly sensitive to stress when exposed to neurotoxins.
Dr Mattson said the human brain could be protected through use of gene therapy.
“These findings suggest bolstering mitochondrial function and stress resistance by increasing SIRT3 levels may offer a promising therapeutic target for protecting against age-related cognitive decline and brain diseases,” he said.
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