Scientists may have found a new way to fight memory loss—and it doesn’t involve removing anything from the brain. In a new study, researchers discovered that raising levels of a natural brain protein called Hevin helped aging mice remember more and learn faster. Even mice with signs of Alzheimer’s improved, despite still having harmful plaque in their brains. The key? Hevin seems to strengthen the tiny connections between brain cells, helping them work better together.
The study’s results are exciting because they show it might be possible to boost memory using the brain’s own tools. While this research is still in early stages and hasn’t been tested in humans yet, scientists say it opens the door to future treatments for age-related memory loss. Instead of only focusing on damage, this approach focuses on helping the brain reconnect—and that could make all the difference.