Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) have identified a protein that may play a critical role in the aging of the brain — and potentially how to reverse its effects.
The protein, ferritin light chain 1 (FTL1), is associated with iron and has been labeled a “pro-aging neuronal factor” that disrupts memory and learning functions. Findings were published this month in Nature Aging.
By studying the hippocampus — the region responsible for memory and learning — scientists compared gene and protein activity in young and old mice. They discovered that older mice had higher levels of FTL1, fewer neural connections, and impaired cognitive abilities.
When researchers artificially boosted FTL1 in young mice, their brains began to resemble those of older mice, both in structure and behavior. Conversely, reducing FTL1 levels in older mice appeared to restore youthful brain activity: the animals showed stronger neural connections and improved memory performance.
The study also found that FTL1 slowed metabolism in hippocampal cells. However, treatment with a metabolism-enhancing compound was able to counteract this effect, offering another potential therapeutic pathway.
“These results represent a reversal of impairment,” said Dr. Saul Villeda, associate director of the UCSF Bakar Aging Research Institute and senior author of the study. “It’s much more than delaying symptoms — we’re seeing real opportunities to alleviate the most damaging consequences of aging. It’s a hopeful time in the field of aging biology.”
Independent experts are also encouraged by the findings. Dr. Paul Saphier, a neurosurgeon and founder of Coaxial Neurosurgical Specialists in New Jersey, called the research “really interesting,” noting parallels to conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, which is linked to protein accumulation in the brain.
“If we can slow or reverse the buildup of FTL1 in the hippocampus, we may be able to enhance cognition and memory,” Saphier said. He added that prior research has already shown that altering sugar and protein metabolism can influence aging rates.
The work was supported by the National Science Foundation, the Bakar Aging Research Institute, and the National Institute on Aging.
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