Platelet Factor 4 improves cognition in elderly mice

[Saul]

Fascinating stuff, discovered very recently at UCSF and two other places, mostly independently: 

A protein released by blood platelets, PF4, improves cognition in elderly mice.  It declines as we age (in both mice and people).  It may be the reason why young blood improves cognition and reduces frailty in aging mice, when blood vessels are conjoined to younger mice.

Both Calorie restriction and exercise also increase PF4 levels in the blood (of humans).

Read:

https://www.sciencenews.org/article/platelet-pf4-aging-brain-longevity

  --  Saul

[Saul]

It seems possible (maybe probable?) that PF4 may be the main molecule in young blood that improves the health and cognition of elderly mice when conjoined with young mice by parabiosis.

If so, then the current market in youthful plasma for wealthy older folk may collapse.

  --  Saul

[Ron Put]

On 8/30/2023 at 9:36 AM, Saul said:

A protein released by blood platelets, PF4, improves cognition in elderly mice. 

Interesting, thanks Saul!

But PF4 can be tricky, since it can be pro-inflammatory and act as a tumor suppressant, while at other times it can promote tumor growth, such as in prostate, colorectal, and lung cancers.

PF4 promotes platelet production and lung cancer growth - PMC (nih.gov)

[Saul]

Hi Ron!

Certainly, much larger studies are needed to see the effects on animals, and, if successful, on humans.

  --  Saul