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Bone Marrow Transplantation Procedures in Mice to Study Clonal Hematopoiesis
Published on: May 26, 2021
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Young bone marrow transplantation preserves learning and memory in old mice
Melanie M Das1,2, Marlesa Godoy1,2, Shuang Chen2,3
1Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, 90048, USA.
Communications Biology
|March 2, 2019
Summary
Young bone marrow transplantation rejuvenates cognitive function in old mice by preserving synapses and reducing inflammation, independent of neurogenesis. This suggests a potential therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Aging Research
Background:
- Young blood/plasma rejuvenates old mice, linked to reduced CCL11 and beta2-microglobulin, potentially improving neurogenesis.
- The hematopoietic system's role in this rejuvenation and neurogenesis's importance in aging mice remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the specific role of the hematopoietic system in age-related cognitive decline and rejuvenation.
- To determine if young bone marrow transplantation can preserve cognitive function independently of neurogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Transplantation of young bone marrow into old mice.
- Assessment of cognitive function, neurogenesis, synaptic integrity, microglial activation, and circulating CCL11 levels.
- Administration of CCL11 to young mice to observe effects on synapses and microglial activation.
Main Results:
- Young bone marrow transplantation preserved cognitive function in old mice despite suppressed neurogenesis.
- Synaptic connections were preserved, and microglial activation was reduced in the hippocampus of recipients.
- Circulating CCL11 levels decreased in recipients, and CCL11 administration impaired synaptic function and increased microglial activation in young mice.
Conclusions:
- The hematopoietic system, through mechanisms beyond neurogenesis, plays a crucial role in cognitive rejuvenation.
- Young bone marrow transplantation offers a potential therapeutic avenue for age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.
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