How to overcome memory impairment
In San Francisco, researchers at the University of California discovered a protein responsible for memory impairment. In particular, it was determined that age-related memory changes occur with an increase in the concentration of beta-2-microglobulin.
To confirm this hypothesis, preclinical trials were conducted, which were conducted under the guidance of Saul Wylld. The study was conducted on mice that were given this protein, and then watched how the animals could perform certain tasks. First, for the mice in the water maze, they hid the platform and with the help of visual cues taught them to search. With this task, the mice cope easily( they made 1-2 errors for five attempts).After introducing beta-2-microglobin, the animals began to make more mistakes( more often all 5 out of five) and could hardly find a platform.
At the next stage of the experiment, the mice were placed in a chamber, after which( after a couple of minutes) an electric current was discharged, the source of which emanated from the bottom of the chamber. Then the animals were taken out and returned back to the cell only the next day. Upon entering the camera, the mice first actively explored the space, and after a short time stopped, remembering the electric shock. In those animals that received protein, negative memories turned out to be not so bright( in comparison with mice from the experimental group) and they remained immobile for less time.
If we talk about more accurate figures, the researchers noted that during the first minute of the experiment the animals were stationary about 60% of the time. This period was reduced almost two times after the introduction of protein. It is worth noting that a month after the experiment the mice were able to recover and they successfully passed the tests. Therefore, the researchers concluded that the introduced beta-2-microglobin protein has a reversible effect.
According to the scientists who conducted this experiment, it is possible to prevent an age-related memory impairment if it is possible to achieve the prevention of interaction between beta-2-microglobulin and the protein complex into which it belongs. It is assumed that over time it will be possible to purge the blood of the elderly from the protein in a way that will prevent memory impairment.
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