Social housing promotes cognitive function through enhancing synaptic plasticity in APP/PS1 mice.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Gerontology
• Immunology

Background:

• Loneliness is linked to increased Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk.
• Social housing can delay cognitive impairment, but mechanisms are unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of social interaction on cognitive function and AD pathology in APP/PS1 mice.

Main Methods:

• APP/PS1 mice were assigned to social isolation (SI), social contact with one mouse (SCO), or social contact with five mice (SCF) groups.
• Cognitive function was assessed using the Morris Water Maze.
• Amyloid plaque deposition, synaptic function, and glial cell gene expression were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Social housing improved cognitive performance in APP/PS1 mice.
• The five-mouse social contact group (SCF) showed enhanced synaptic function, dendritic spine density, and neuronal complexity compared to SI and SCO groups.
• Glial gene expression indicated reduced inflammation and enhanced regulatory pathways in the SCF group.
• Amyloid plaque deposition rates were not significantly altered by social housing.

Conclusions:

• Quality social interaction, specifically in larger groups, plays a crucial role in maintaining neuronal function during Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis.
• Findings support the importance of social engagement and family care for Alzheimer's patients.