The Secrets of the Brain and Memory
- joey Zhong
- Sep 18
- 3 min read
The brain is a complex organ composed of billions of interconnected neurons. These neurons rely on blood to supply oxygen and glucose, which are vital for their survival. When dendritic spines on the dendrites of neurons receive signals from other neurons, they generate an electrical charge. This charge travels to a junction known as the "synapse," where it releases chemicals called neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters transmit information to other neurons, allowing the brain to perform various functions. The strength of these neural signals depends on the number of synapses and the shape of the dendritic spines. This process is fundamental to various cognitive functions, such as learning, memory, emotional regulation, and executive function. This adaptability is known as "synaptic plasticity."
The Impact of Aging on the Brain
As we age, the blood flow to the brain may decrease. This can lead to an increased inflammatory response in the body when faced with injury or illness. Importantly, certain areas of the brain may shrink, resulting in reduced communication between neurons, especially in regions critical for learning and cognition.
Decrease in Synaptic Connections
With aging, the brain experiences a decline in blood flow. This reduction can exacerbate the inflammatory response to injuries or illnesses. Key areas of the brain may shrink, leading to diminished communication between neurons, particularly in regions vital for cognitive functions.
Cognitive Decline and Disorders
"Cognitive decline" describes the symptoms that arise when brain function deteriorates, but it does not necessarily refer to a specific disease. Recently, the term has gained popularity in Hong Kong, while "cognitive impairment" or "Alzheimer's disease" refers more specifically to patients with particular conditions. On the other hand, a gradual decline in memory and learning abilities that affects daily functioning is termed "cognitive impairment," which is just one manifestation of cognitive decline. Other symptoms may include motor function disorders, which can also appear in patients experiencing cognitive decline.
Weakened Synaptic Function
Recent neuroscience research indicates that in the early stages of cognitive decline, synaptic plasticity decreases, and synaptic function becomes impaired. Brain function is regulated by the strength of signals transmitted between neurons. The intensity of these signals depends on the regulation of synaptic function, which is influenced by the number and shape of dendritic spines on neurons. "Long-term potentiation" refers to the electrophysiological response of synaptic plasticity when stimulated. In experimental models of cognitive impairment, long-term potentiation is significantly weakened.
The Role of Soluble Amyloid Beta (Aβ) Oligomers
The reasons behind cognitive decline and reduced synaptic plasticity are not fully understood. However, these phenomena are known to be associated with aging, genetic factors, and environmental influences. Among these, soluble amyloid beta (Aβ) oligomers are one of the most recognized pathogenic factors leading to Alzheimer's disease. Current neuroscience research shows that Aβ oligomers inhibit synaptic plasticity, diminish the electrophysiological response of neurons, and impair long-term potentiation, ultimately harming brain activity.
Early Prevention: Effective Restructuring
As Aβ oligomers continue to accumulate, they tend to cluster and form plaques in brain tissue. Recent studies have found that in cognitively normal older adults, 20-40% show visible Aβ plaques on brain scans. Therefore, when an individual begins to exhibit cognitive and memory decline, significant amounts of Aβ have already accumulated in the brain, damaging neurons and leading to brain tissue atrophy. By the time a clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease is made, the accumulation of Aβ, neuronal damage, and tissue atrophy have reached their peak, significantly impacting cognitive and memory abilities. This impaired brain function will eventually worsen and affect other bodily functions. Consequently, the characteristics of Alzheimer's disease create a narrow treatment window. Considering the time gap between the onset of Alzheimer's disease and the appearance of symptoms, it is crucial to recognize the importance of early prevention, delaying symptom onset, and maintaining mental and physical health.
Innovative Solutions for Cognitive Health
Based on our understanding of Alzheimer's disease, an effective method to restructure synaptic plasticity and enhance function can improve cognitive and memory abilities. INFItech Limited focuses on the fundamental causes of impaired synaptic plasticity. In experimental models of cognitive impairment, it has been shown that Cogniherbs® products can effectively improve synaptic neurotransmission, reverse the effects of cognitive decline factors, and increase brain activity, thereby reducing cognitive decline.
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