In a recent study published in npj Aging, scientists from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Center for Brain, Biology and Behavior and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have identified a specific nutrient profile that may play a crucial role in promoting healthy brain aging. The findings offer valuable insights into preventing cognitive decline and developing interventions for improved brain health.

Led by Aron Barbey, the Director of the Center for Brain, Biology and Behavior, the team conducted a comprehensive multimodal study that combined cutting-edge innovations in neuroscience and nutritional science. The study enrolled 100 cognitively healthy participants, aged 65-75, who completed a questionnaire providing demographic information, body measurements, and physical activity details.

Blood plasma samples were collected from the participants after a fasting period for analysis of nutrient biomarkers. Additionally, cognitive assessments and MRI scans were performed to evaluate brain health. The researchers observed two distinct types of brain aging among the participants - accelerated and slower-than-expected. Remarkably, those with slower brain aging exhibited a unique nutrient profile.

The beneficial nutrient biomarkers identified in these individuals included a combination of fatty acids such as vaccenic, gondoic, alpha linolenic, elcosapentaenoic, eicosadienoic, and lignoceric acids. Antioxidants and carotenoids like cis-lutein, trans-lutein, and zeaxanthin, two forms of vitamin E, and choline were also prominent in their blood biomarkers. Interestingly, this nutrient profile closely resembles the Mediterranean diet, which previous research has associated with healthy brain aging.

A major strength of this study lies in its comprehensive approach, as it incorporated brain imaging, blood biomarkers, and validated cognitive assessments. By simultaneously examining brain structure, function, and metabolism, the researchers established a direct link between these factors and cognitive abilities. Furthermore, they demonstrated that these brain properties are directly influenced by diet and nutrition, as evidenced by the observed patterns in nutrient biomarkers.

Moving forward, the scientists plan to further investigate the identified nutrient profile and its role in promoting healthy brain aging. The findings raise the possibility of utilizing these specific nutrients in the development of therapies and interventions for improved brain health. Randomized controlled trials will be conducted to assess the impact of increasing the levels of these specific nutrient profiles on cognitive test performance and measures of brain structure, function, and metabolism.

This groundbreaking study provides valuable insights into the association between nutrition and brain aging. The research not only advances our understanding of how specific nutrients contribute to cognitive performance and brain health but also opens up possibilities for targeted interventions to enhance healthy brain aging. As the scientific community delves deeper into this field, future discoveries may pave the way for innovative approaches to support healthier aging and overall well-being.

The study was published in the journal npj Aging with the reference: Christopher E. Zwilling et al, "Investigating nutrient biomarkers of healthy brain aging: a multimodal brain imaging study," npj Aging (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41514-024-00150-8.