Ageing research reviews
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Ageing research reviews · Nov 2014
ReviewWhen astrocytes become harmful: functional and inflammatory responses that contribute to Alzheimer's disease.
A growing body of research suggests that astrocytes play roles as contributors to the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Several lines of evidence propose that activated astrocytes produce and release proinflammatory molecules that may be critical for the generation of amyloid-β peptide (Aβ). ⋯ In this article, we address the evidence surrounding the interactions of dysfunctional astrocytes with neighboring neurons that may initiate a cascade of events that culminates with neuronal injury and the expression of the hallmark lesions of AD. Comprehensive knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying the participation of astrocytes in neurodegeneration could aid the development of therapies to restore proper astrocyte function that can be used in AD patients to prevent or alleviate the progression of the disease in a more efficient and comprehensive manner.
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The skin protects humans from the surrounding environment. Tissues undergo continuous renewal throughout an individual's lifetime; however, there is a decline in the regenerative potential of tissue with age. The accumulation of senescent cells over time probably reduces tissue regenerative capacity and contributes to the physiological ageing of the tissue itself. ⋯ In vitro, keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts undergo senescence in response to multiple cellular stresses, including the overproduction of reactive oxygen species and the shortening of telomeres, or simply by reaching the end of their replicative potential (i.e., reaching replicative senescence). Recent findings demonstrate that microRNAs play key roles in regulating the balance between a cell's proliferative capacity and replicative senescence. Here, we will focus on the molecular mechanisms regulated by senescence-associated microRNAs and their validated targets in both keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts.
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Ageing research reviews · May 2014
ReviewA quantitative neural network approach to understanding aging phenotypes.
Basic research on neurocognitive aging has traditionally adopted a reductionist approach in the search for the basis of cognitive preservation versus decline. However, increasing evidence suggests that a network level understanding of the brain can provide additional novel insight into the structural and functional organization from which complex behavior and dysfunction emerge. ⋯ Consistent with current efforts in this area, here we outline one analytic strategy that attempts to quantify graph theory metrics more precisely, with the goal of improving diagnostic sensitivity and predictive accuracy for differential trajectories in neurocognitive aging. Ultimately, such an approach may yield useful measures for gauging the efficacy of potential preventative interventions and disease modifying treatments early in the course of aging.
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Ageing research reviews · Mar 2014
ReviewEfficacy and safety of medical cannabinoids in older subjects: a systematic review.
This systematic review aims to integrate the evidence on indications, efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetics of medical cannabinoids in older subjects. The literature search was conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL and Cochrane Library. We selected controlled trials including solely older subjects (≥65 years) or reporting data on older subgroups. 105 (74%) papers, on controlled intervention trials, reported the inclusion of older subjects. ⋯ Adverse events were more common during cannabinoid treatment compared to the control treatment, and were most frequently sedation like symptoms. Although trials studying medical cannabinoids included older subjects, there is a lack of evidence of its use specifically in older patients. Adequately powered trials are needed to assess the efficacy and safety of cannabinoids in older subjects, as the potential symptomatic benefit is especially attractive in this age group.
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With advancing age, a decline in the main sensory modalities including touch sensation and perception is well reported to occur. This review mainly outlines the peripheral components of touch perception highlighting ageing influences on morphological and functional features of cutaneous mechanical transducers and mechanosensitive ion channels, sensory innervation, neurotransmitters and even vascular system required to ensure efferent function of the afferent nerve fibres in the skin. This, in conjunction with effect of ageing on the skin per se and central nervous system, could explain the tactile deficit seen among the ageing population. We also discuss appropriate tools and experimental models available to study the age-related tactile decline.