Scientists say they’ve reversed brain aging with a simple nasal spray

Researchers at Texas A&M University say they may have found a way to do just that using a simple nasal spray designed to reduce inflammation in the brain. In a new study, scientists reported that the treatment restored memory, reduced chronic inflammation, and improved brain cell function after just two doses. The team believes the findings could eventually lead to new therapies for conditions tied to aging and cognitive decline, including dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

For years, scientists have known that aging brains often experience persistent low level inflammation, a process known as "neuroinflammaging." This chronic inflammation can interfere with memory, thinking, and the brain's ability to adapt to new situations. It is also considered a major contributor to neurodegenerative diseases. Now, researchers say that process may not be permanent after all. Ashok Shetty, university distinguished professor and associate director of the Institute for Regenerative Medicine, together with senior research scientists Dr. Madhu Leelavathi Narayana and Dr. Their findings were published in the Journal of Extracellular Vesicles. "Brain age-related diseases like dementia are a major health concern worldwide," Shetty said. "What we're showing is brain aging can be reversed, to help people stay mentally sharp, socially engaged and free from age-related decline." The therapy relies on microscopic biological particles called extracellular vesicles (EVs). These tiny structures naturally transport genetic material between cells. In this case, they were loaded with microRNAs, molecules that help regulate important biological processes in the brain. "MicroRNAs act like master regulators," Narayana said. "They help modulate and regulate many gene and signaling pathways in the brain." Researchers delivered the EVs through a nasal spray, allowing the treatment to bypass the brain's protective barrier and travel directly into brain tissue.

Key points

• For years, scientists have known that aging brains often experience persistent low level inflammation, a process known as "neuroinflammaging." This chronic inflammation can interfere with memory, t…
• It is also considered a major contributor to neurodegenerative diseases.
• Now, researchers say that process may not be permanent after all.
• Ashok Shetty, university distinguished professor and associate director of the Institute for Regenerative Medicine, together with senior research scientists Dr.
• Madhu Leelavathi Narayana and Dr.