In recent years, scientists have been exploring new possibilities for understanding the human aging process. And, in particular, how the passage of time affects the functioning of the most complex organ: the brain.
Aging is a biological, psychological and social process that produces progressive and cumulative changes in the structure and function of the body. Typically, we estimate it based on the traditional concept of age – the number of years we have lived since we were born – although new methods – such as epigenetic clocks – allow us to know the real extent of wear and tear on the body, no matter what appears. on our ID.
In the specific case of the brain, advanced neuroimaging techniques also make it possible to objectively determine whether it is preserved in good condition or has more disease than would be appropriate given the age of its owner.
Examination of the depths of the brain
Brain aging is measured using a method known as brain age or “brain age”, currently in the experimental stage. Scientists usually use measurement brain-predicted age difference (brain-PAD)) – “predicted brain age difference” – which applies the BrainageR model. This system uses methods machine learning or machine learning, a type of artificial intelligence.
The following steps follow. First, scientists examine the anatomical state, shape and volume of the patient’s brain using structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). They then compare the information with other brain images stored in a database, determining what would be typical for a person their age.
The end result is brain-PAD: A positive value indicates that the brain appears older than expected based on the participant’s age, while a negative value indicates the opposite.
What is the purpose of knowing brain age?
This method of biological dating can provide benefits for health, mental well-being and aging planning. Various studies have confirmed that knowing the age of our brain allows us to predict future physical and mental disorders.
Thus, in a recent study, neuroscientist Fengqing Zhang and his colleagues found that high biological age (a calculation that takes into account factors such as cardiovascular health, bone density, cognitive function and other indicators of physical and mental well-being) and age brains greater than chronological age were associated with a higher risk of developing depression, anxiety, diabetes, hypertension, or cerebral stroke.
In another paper, researchers found that the likelihood of developing dementia increased by 3% with each additional year of brain age. The results show that knowledge of our brain-PAD can help identify this risk at an early stage.
Read more: Super Elders with Super Neurons: Why is there a brain that defies the flow of time?
The tool’s potential for predicting mortality was also explored. The investigation is related to brain-PAD positive with a higher chance of dying before age 80. Moreover, each additional year of predicted brain age increases the risk of death by 6.1%.
Invest in your cognitive reserve
The question naturally arises: is it possible for us to delay brain aging? Answer: yes. Evidence suggests that we can influence the actual age of our brain by creating and maintaining what is called cognitive reserve.
Cognitive reserve is the brain’s ability to withstand damage or compensate for loss of cognitive function. Staying mentally active, engaging in cognitive activities, constant learning, regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle help strengthen this “old age insurance.” Activities that challenge our minds, such as learning languages, solving puzzles, knitting, drawing, playing strategy board games, etc., are especially recommended.
Ultimately, the ability to predict visible brain aging opens the door to early, personalized interventions. In addition, brain age calculation may play an important role in identifying candidates for clinical trials, facilitating the evaluation of neuroprotective and antiaging treatments.