Brain aging is the physiological process of cumulative structural and functional decline within the central nervous system over time. This natural progression involves changes such as cerebral atrophy, reduced synaptic plasticity, and altered neurotransmitter signaling. Clinically, this is associated with a gradual decline in cognitive functions, including processing speed and memory recall. Maintaining hormonal balance, particularly of neurosteroids, is recognized as a key factor in mitigating age-related neurological changes.
Origin
The concept combines the biological term ‘brain,’ originating from Old English brægen, and ‘aging,’ which refers to the process of growing old, deriving from the Old English ealdian. Within the clinical and longevity domain, the term defines a specific biological timeline for neurological health. Its clinical relevance has increased significantly with the rise of preventative and anti-aging endocrinology.
Mechanism
Mechanisms involve chronic low-grade neuroinflammation, oxidative stress accumulation, and mitochondrial dysfunction in neuronal and glial cells. A decline in trophic factors, such as Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), reduces neurogenesis and synaptic maintenance. Furthermore, the progressive reduction in sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone significantly impacts neuronal viability and protection, accelerating the overall rate of neurodegeneration.
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