SuperAgers: Insights into Enhanced Neurogenesis in Aging Brains

Recent research conducted by Israeli and American scientists has revealed that individuals over the age of 80, termed "SuperAgers," exhibit a remarkable ability to generate new neurons at a rate twice that of their cognitively healthy peers in their 50s and 60s. This study, published in the journal *Nature*, was led by Orly Lazarov, a professor at the University of Illinois Chicago, alongside Tamar Gefen from Northwestern University and researchers from the University of Washington. SuperAgers are distinguished by their exceptional memory capabilities, allowing them to recall everyday events and personal histories with the same proficiency as much younger individuals.

Times of Israel

The researchers analyzed brain samples from five distinct groups: healthy young adults, healthy older adults, individuals with mild dementia, those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and SuperAgers. Utilizing an advanced technique known as multiomic single-cell sequencing, they examined nearly 356,000 individual cell nuclei from the hippocampus, a critical area for memory formation. The findings indicated that SuperAgers not only produced more new neurons but also exhibited a unique "resilience signature" in their hippocampi, which supports the birth and survival of these neurons.

Times of Israel

The implications of this research are significant. Lazarov stated, “Determining why some brains age more healthily than others can help researchers make therapeutics for healthy aging, cognitive resilience, and the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia.” The study provides biological evidence that the aging brain can remain adaptable and capable of neurogenesis, challenging the long-held belief that brain cells do not renew.

Times of Israel

Ilia Stambler, PhD, chairman and CSO of Vetek (Seniority) Association in Israel, noted that while he was not involved in the study, there has been "accumulating evidence" over the past two decades regarding the importance of neurogenesis in cognitive resilience. He emphasized that this research offers hope for improving early diagnosis of cognitive impairment and achieving healthy longevity.

Times of Israel

While the study presents compelling evidence of enhanced neurogenesis in SuperAgers, it also highlights a stark contrast with individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, who showed minimal to no new neuron formation. This discrepancy raises questions about the underlying mechanisms that differentiate SuperAgers from those experiencing cognitive decline.

Times of Israel

• “SuperAgers had twice the neurogenesis of the other healthy older adults,” — Orly Lazarov, Professor, University of Illinois Chicago

Times of Israel

• “This is biological proof that their brains are more plastic,” — Tamar Gefen, Associate Professor, Northwestern University

Times of Israel

• “This new research provides additional evidence for the role of neurogenesis in cognitive resilience, especially that of SuperAgers who retain remarkable physical and cognitive ability to extreme old age,” — Ilia Stambler, PhD, Vetek Association

Times of Israel

The study of SuperAgers not only enhances our understanding of cognitive aging but also opens avenues for potential therapeutic interventions aimed at promoting healthy brain aging and combating neurodegenerative diseases.

Times of Israel