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Could some effects of aging be slowed—or even partly reversed? New research involving scientists from Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Stanford University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University and the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences suggests that a compound found in sea squirts may offer an intriguing clue.
In experiments involving aged mice, researchers found that dietary supplements containing plasmalogens—lipids naturally present in cell membranes—improved several age-related changes, including memory, brain health and physical appearance.
Sea squirts, known as meongge in Korea and hoya in Japan, are marine animals eaten in parts of Asia. They contain relatively high levels of plasmalogens, which are also naturally found in the human body, particularly in the brain, heart and immune cells. Plasmalogen levels tend to decline with age and have also been found to be lower in people with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
The researchers therefore investigated whether restoring plasmalogen levels could counter some effects of aging.
The results were notable. Aged mice fed plasmalogen supplements showed significant improvements in learning and memory compared with untreated aged mice. They also developed thicker, darker and glossier hair.
“Our research suggests that plasmalogens may not just stop cognitive decline, but may reverse cognitive impairments in the aging brain,” said Professor Lei Fu, the study’s corresponding author.
Memory improves in aged mice
To test learning and memory, the researchers used the Morris water maze, a standard laboratory test in which mice must learn the location of a hidden platform in a pool.
After five days of training, aged mice given plasmalogens found the platform considerably faster than aged mice that did not receive the supplement. Their performance became more similar to that of younger mice.
Researchers examining the animals’ brains found that the treated mice had more synapses, the microscopic connections through which nerve cells communicate. The synapses also appeared to be in better condition.
Synapses play a crucial role in learning and memory, while the brain’s ability to form and strengthen these connections—known as neural plasticity—generally becomes less effective with age.
The findings suggest that plasmalogens may help preserve or restore some of the brain’s ability to build neural connections.
Less inflammation in the aging brain
The researchers also found significantly lower levels of inflammation in the brains of mice receiving plasmalogens.
Although inflammation is a normal part of the immune response, persistent inflammation in the brain can damage nerve cells and interfere with communication between them. Chronic brain inflammation has also been linked to several neurodegenerative conditions.
The researchers believe the reduction in inflammation may be one reason the treated mice performed better in memory and learning tests.
However, the findings are still based on experiments in mice. It remains unclear whether plasmalogen supplements would produce similar effects in humans, or whether consuming sea squirts would provide comparable benefits.
The study nevertheless adds to growing scientific interest in plasmalogens and their possible role in maintaining brain function as the body ages.