“These findings indicate that the dormant X in females indeed reactivates later in life, likely contributing to the slowdown of cognitive decline.”
Remarkably, the team of scientists discovered that around 20 genes on the dormant X, associated with brain development and memory, became activated in the brains of these older mice.
“Aging had revitalized the dormant X,” Dubal further noted.
One gene, referred to as PLP1, assists in the production of myelin – which acts like insulation for brain cells, enhancing their communication.
The female brain is given a boost in old age by that ‘vacant’ chromosome, according to new research (Getty stock)
When they evaluated the impact of PLP1 in both male and female mice, its enhancement improved memory and learning capabilities in both sexes.
The researchers propose that this could be the reason why women’s brains display fewer indications of aging when compared to men’s, as the additional X might provide an extra layer of defense.
“We immediately considered this might clarify how women’s brains maintain resilience during normal aging, due to men lacking this extra X,” stated Margaret Gadek, the primary author of the paper and a graduate student at UCSF.
Dubal commented: “Cognition represents one of our most significant biomedical challenges, but there are variables in the aging brain, and the X chromosome can certainly inform us about what’s feasible.
“Are there strategies that can enhance genes like PLP1 from the X chromosome to mitigate decline – for both women and men – as we age?”
Featured Image Credit: Getty stock