Compound derived from sea squirts could reverse signs of aging

An international research team has revealed that supplements containing the plasmalogen compound, which is abundantly found in marine creatures commonly known as sea squirts or Ascidiacea, improve learning abilities and reverse signs of aging in elderly mice.

Discovery of plasmalogens in sea squirts

Scientists from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Stanford University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences conducted a joint study.

The research examined the plasmalogen compound, which is abundantly found in marine animals known as sea squirts, or Ascidiacea.

Plasmalogen levels in the body

Plasmalogens are an essential part of cell membranes and are present in the brain, heart, and immune cells.

As age advances, the levels of these substances decrease, and this reduction is also observed in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Experiments conducted on mice

Within the scope of the research, plasmalogens were added to the diets of elderly mice, and significant improvements were observed in the supplemented mice.

It was observed that these mice acquired thicker, shinier, and new black fur.

Laboratory tests and results

Scientists used the Morris water maze test to measure learning and memory.

Following five days of training, elderly mice that received plasmalogen supplementation performed similarly to young animals.

Brain functions and inflammation

Examinations revealed that the mice receiving the supplement had better synapses.

Furthermore, it was determined that the level of inflammation in the brains of these mice was significantly lower.

Future research and expectations

Although the findings are promising, the research has been conducted on an animal model for now.

Additional studies are needed to understand whether similar effects will be observed in humans.