Engineered immune therapy could help fight brain aging
Medical Xpress
February 24, 2026
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Engineered immune therapy shows promise in combating brain aging by stimulating new neuron growth, reducing inflammation, and enhancing cognitive function in older mice. This breakthrough, detailed in a study published in *Immunity*, involves modifying interleukin-33, an immune protein, to target microglia—brain immune cells that become dysfunctional with age. By reprogramming these cells, researchers observed reduced neurodegeneration and improved brain health.
The Knight Initiative for Brain Resilience developed this innovative approach by engineering the cytokine interleukin-33 to promote neurogenesis and alleviate inflammation in aged mice. This targeted therapy not only restored microglial function but also fostered a supportive environment for new neurons, leading to significant cognitive improvements comparable to those seen in younger mice.
This discovery opens exciting possibilities for treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's. By addressing the root causes of brain aging, such as inflammation and neuron loss, this therapy could potentially slow or reverse age-related cognitive decline.
As populations age, maintaining cognitive health becomes increasingly crucial. This research offers hope for developing therapies that enhance mental function and overall quality of life in older adults, a growing concern globally.
Further studies are needed to explore how this approach might translate from mice to
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/24/2026