Therapeutic approaches for improving cognitive function in the aging brain

Abstract

The rapid aging of populations around the world has become an unprecedented challenge. Aging is associated with cognitive impairment, including dementia and mild cognitive impairment. Successful drug development for improving or maintaining cognition in the elderly is critically important. Although 4 drugs for improving cognition in Alzheimer’s disease have been approved, a variety of potential drugs targeting age-related cognitive impairment are still in development. In addition, non-pharmacological interventions, including cognition-oriented treatments, non-invasive brain stimulation physical exercise, and lifestyle-related interventions, have also been suggested as cognitive enhancers in the last decade. In this paper, we reviewed the recent evidence of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions aimed at improving or maintaining cognition in the elderly.

Molecular Mechanisms for the Carnosine-Induced Activation of Muscle–Brain Interaction

“…In our previous studies, we have shown by double-blind randomized controlled trials that carnosine improves memory function [ 2 , 20 ], and we have also hypothesized that part of the molecular basis for this improvement is that intestinal cells encountering carnosine secrete exosomes that induce neurite outgrowth in neuronal cells [ 5 ]. As exercise is effective in improving cognitive function [ 21 ] and enhances carnosine synthesis in skeletal muscles [ 22 ], the purpose of this study was to clarify the carnosine-induced interaction between muscle cells and neuronal cells. Previous studies have found that carnosine acts on intestinal cells and stimulates the secretion of exosomes that induce the neurite outgrowth in neuronal cells [ 4 ].…”

Exploring the Potential of Antidiabetic Agents as Therapeutic Approaches for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases: A Comprehensive Review

“…Noteworthy examples include studies indicating that the administration of metformin or thiazolidinediones correlates with improved cognitive performance and decelerated cognitive deterioration in Alzheimer's patients. Nevertheless, it is essential to acknowledge that the cognitive advantages illustrated above have not been universally replicated across all investigations [50][51][52][53]. Further investigation is warranted to elucidate the factors contributing to the variable outcomes observed.…”

Comment on Krikorian et al. Early Intervention in Cognitive Aging with Strawberry Supplementation. Nutrients 2023, 15, 4431

“…The study concludes that a 12-week intervention of daily whole-fruit strawberry powder can effectively reduce the risk of dementia in middle-aged individuals with subjective cognitive decline, evidenced by decreased memory interference and depressive symptoms. While there are a few drugs approved to enhance cognition in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), none are approved to protect cognition in patients with mild cognitive impairment [ 2 ]. Prior studies have demonstrated cognitive improvements in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s dementia after 12 or 24 weeks [ 3 , 4 ].…”