All of us forget things from time to time. But as we age, or if we develop conditions such as dementia, the reality of forgetfulness might be a daily occurrence and the neurons in the brain can be impacted. Fortunately, new research might be helping to unlock the mysteries of the brain.
What Are Neurons?
A little background: Neurons are the basic cells in our nervous system. Their job is to make connections with other cells, then release chemicals that send information to those cells. Neurons are essential for the proper functioning of our senses, our ability to move, and our ability to think and remember.
In a recent study scientists discovered a new brain compound, called P7C3, that renews and restores the cells essential for thinking and memory, at least in the brains of rodents. This discovery could very well benefit humans in the near future.
P7C3 Is Good for Neurons
In this study, researchers tested 1,000 drug-like chemicals on the brains of rodents to find if the chemicals help preserve or restore neurons. One of the drug-like chemical compounds, referred to as P7C3, was found to be pro-neurogenic (helps the formation of new neurons) and neuroprotective (protects against the death of neurons). The compound P7C3 was also found to have “favorable pharmacologic properties.” That means it may eventually be a drug that can benefit humans.
After being tested in mice, P7C3 was then tested in rats to see if the chemical had any effect on older rodents’ thinking abilities. The P7C3-treated rats showed more thinking ability while performing tasks than did un-treated rats. The conclusion: P7C3 appears to help with the age-related loss of thinking abilities.
Other Cutting-Edge Research
The P7C3 study is just one of many exciting studies that show progress in halting memory loss. Other researchers have found that the human growth factor known as GCSF (commonly used in cancer patients to stimulate cells needed to maintain health), might also help with brain health. Researchers found that, in mice, GCSF might reduce levels of a protein found in excess in Alzheimer’s patients. GCSF might also increase the birth of new neurons and promote nerve cell connections.
All of this is good news for people whose lives have been touched by dementia or other conditions that lead to loss of the ability to think and remember.
What Can You Do to Keep Your Brain Healthy?
Here are some important steps you can take for brain health:
Enrich Your Environment. Play mind-stimulating games, listen to music, and engage in an active social life. Music can stimulate the brain in unique ways and is particularly helpful for people who suffer from dementia or brain injuries from a stroke. Get together with friends and family on a regular basis. Attend community events or a theater production, or play games that normally occur in a group setting, such as cards.
Choose a Healthy Lifestyle. Follow your doctor’s recommendations about daily exercise and a diet that is appropriate for you. If you are overweight, ask your doctor for help losing weight and maintaining the weight loss. Don’t smoke, and if you do…quit! Smoking has a negative impact on all of the blood vessels and cells in your body including your brain. And avoid drinking excess alcohol. It can damage the precious cells in your brain and other organs in your body.
Prevent and Treat Chronic Medical Conditions. It’s important to see a doctor for regular check-ups. Preventing or treating high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or high blood sugar and other similar chronic conditions is essential for long-term brain health. All of these conditions may have an unhealthy impact on the brain and a person’s ability to think. Take these conditions seriously, and see a doctor for preventive recommendations and treatment if needed.
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