Check out the latest in aging advances, research, and events from NIA:
- Consuming a diet with more fish fats, less vegetable oils can reduce migraine headaches — A study team assigned participants to different healthy diet plans with fish, vegetables, hummus, salads, and breakfast foods. Findings showed that the frequency and intensity of monthly migraines declined among participants consuming a diet higher in fish oil.
- Aging neurons prioritize essential genes when repairing DNA — Researchers discovered that neurons appear to focus on mending sections that have genes key to their identity and function, rather than fixing errors randomly across the genome. The findings may lead to new strategies for treating diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
- Study finds differences in APOE ɛ4 expression based on genetic ancestry — The strongest known genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s is a form of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene called APOE ɛ4. A team of researchers found that people who inherit the APOE ɛ4 gene variant from European ancestors may have more APOE expression.
- Four studies explore women’s brain and heart health during midlife — The research focused on the physical, biological, psychological, and social changes that occur before, during, and after menopause. Findings indicate that midlife health may be an important determinant of cognitive and heart health later on in life.
- Testing a blood biomarker for neurodegeneration — Reliable and accessible biomarkers could help enable the early diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Recent research found that a biomarker in blood, known as neurofilament light chain, could help identify the presence of neurodegeneration in people with cognitive impairment.
- Does cellular senescence hold secrets for healthier aging? — NIA-funded research is exploring the cellular state known as senescence — during which damaged cells resist removal by apoptosis, linger, and harm neighboring normal cells — and how this process may contribute to healthy aging.
