Animal Models of Normal Brain Aging

Aging research is significant with the increasing proportion of the elderly population. During aging, the functional capabilities of the brain decline progressively, such as the ability of learning and memory, attention, decision-making speed, and sensory perception. Brain aging is a naturally occurring, complex physiological process. Although various successful animal models have been constructed, none of them fully replicates all the characteristics of human brain aging. Therefore, it is necessary to continue to develop effective animal models to represent as many features of aging as possible.

Importance of Animal Models in Normal Brain Aging Research

Animal models play important roles in understanding the effects of normal aging on the neurobiological structures (mainly hippocampal/cortical systems) and cognition function.

• Animal models provide sufficient data support for aging research, which can help to distinguish between healthy aging and pathological conditions (such as Alzheimer’s disease) with cognitive decline late in life.
• Animal models advance the research on individual differences in aging.
• Animal models help to facilitate new drugs and improved therapeutic options.

Fig.1 Hallmarks of Brain Aging. (Mattson, 2018)

Animal Models of Normal Brain Aging

Aged animals, especially rodents (such as rats and mice), companion animals (such as dogs and cats) and non-human primates (NHP), have shown similar cognitive profiles and are widely used to recapitulate the complexity of the aging process.

Brain aging research based on animal models can help to better inform the design of future clinical studies and improve neuropsychiatric outcomes for older patients. To provide strong support for neuroscientists around the world, Creative Biolabs has developed a variety of antibodies, proteins, agonists/antagonists, toxins against various targets to meet our clients’ requirements. We also provide one-stop customized preclinical animal modeling services. If you are interested in our services and products, please do not hesitate to contact us for more detailed information.

Reference

1. Mattson, M. P.; Arumugam, T. V. Hallmarks of brain aging: adaptive and pathological modification by metabolic states. Cell metabolism. 2018, 27(6): 1176-1199.