Researchers discover protein protecting brain from aging damage

Protein RXRA image.jpg Source - Wikimedia Commons

JERUSALEM, Dec. 21 (Xinhua/UNB) -- A team of researchers from Israel, Russia, the Czech Republic and Belgium has discovered how an enzyme protein called SIRT6 protects the brain from damage that occurs with aging, Israel's Ben-Gurion University of the Negev said in a statement on Sunday.

The study, published in Nature Communications, showed that SIRT6 controls the way the brain uses tryptophan, an important substance that helps produce energy and key chemicals like serotonin and melatonin.

Tryptophan is often called a "sleep molecule," but it also plays a role in mood, learning, and brain health. In aging and certain brain diseases, the balance of tryptophan use is disrupted. This can reduce the production of serotonin and melatonin while increasing harmful byproducts that are toxic to nerve cells.

The researchers used models in human cells, mice, and fruit flies to study this process. When SIRT6 levels drop, tryptophan is used more for energy production, creating toxic compounds and leaving the brain without enough protective neurotransmitters.

The study also found a way to reverse this damage. In fruit flies lacking SIRT6, blocking another enzyme called TDO2 reduced the harmful byproducts, protected brain tissue, and improved movement.

These findings suggest new possibilities for treating age-related brain disorders, sleep problems, and mood changes, the researchers said.

Targeting SIRT6 or TDO2 may help protect the brain, restore healthy chemical balance, and improve quality of life as people get older, they said.