Long-term sorbitol consumption affects the hippocampus and alters cognitive function in aged mice
Haruna Yokoi1,2, Jingshu Wang1, Yoriko Ikuyo1,3
1Department of Oral Disease Research, Geroscience Research Center, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan.
Genes to Cells : Devoted to Molecular & Cellular Mechanisms
|March 11, 2024
Summary
Artificial sweetener sorbitol consumption in aged mice inhibited gingival aging but led to cognitive decline and reduced brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
- Nutrition
Background:
- The systemic effects of artificial sweeteners like sorbitol on older adults remain largely unknown.
- Understanding sorbitol's impact on aging, cognition, and oral health is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the long-term effects of sorbitol consumption on cognitive function and gingival aging in a mouse model.
- To assess sorbitol's impact on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in the hippocampus.
Main Methods:
- Aged mice were administered a diet containing 5% sorbitol for three months.
- Behavioral tests were conducted to assess cognitive function.
- Brain and gingival tissues were collected for histological and molecular analysis.
Main Results:
- Long-term sorbitol consumption significantly inhibited gingival tissue aging in aged mice.
- Conversely, sorbitol intake resulted in cognitive decline and a decrease in hippocampal BDNF levels.
- Sorbitol consumption did not appear to affect overall homeostatic functions.
Conclusions:
- Sorbitol may have differential effects on aging tissues, benefiting gingival health while negatively impacting cognitive function in aged individuals.
- The hippocampus is a potential target for sorbitol's adverse cognitive effects, possibly mediated by reduced BDNF levels.
