Could a simple nasal spray revive our memory and concentration? An American team claims to have reduced brain inflammation and revived cognitive functions in animal models.
Researchers from Texas A&M University describe, in the
Journal of Extracellular Vesicles, an approach capable of mitigating the effects of the slow, and until now considered inevitable, inflammation of the brain. And this within a few weeks, with long-lasting benefits.
At the heart of this work is a phenomenon called "neuroinflammaging." It refers to a chronic inflammation that disrupts memory, concentration, and adaptation to new situations. This inflammatory activity also increases the risk of diseases like Alzheimer's.
The team led by Ashok Shetty proposes an unexpected solution: a nasal spray administered in two doses. According to their results, this method strongly reduces brain inflammation and improves cognitive performance, with effects observed over several months.
The mechanism relies on extracellular vesicles, tiny biological structures capable of transporting microRNAs. These molecules regulate the expression of many genes involved in brain function and protection.
Administered intranasally, these vesicles bypass the blood-brain barrier, which is usually difficult to cross. They reach brain tissues directly and are absorbed by local immune cells.
Once in place, the microRNAs modulate several major inflammatory pathways, including the NLRP3 and cGAS-STING systems. These play a key role in maintaining the chronic inflammation observed in the aging brain.
The researchers also report an improvement in the functioning of mitochondria, the true powerhouses of neurons. By reducing oxidative stress, the treatment restores an increased capacity for nerve cells to process and store information.
Behavioral tests confirm these biological effects. Treated subjects better recognize familiar objects and more easily detect changes in their environment, a sign of restored memory and attention.
Beyond these results, scientists mention broad prospects: prevention of cognitive decline, aid in recovery after a stroke, or even slowing down neurodegenerative diseases.