Unveiling the Connection Between Memory Decline and Brain Cells

Researchers have discovered that a decline in somatostatin-positive interneurons in the hippocampus is linked to memory challenges in mice, resembling age-related cognitive deficits. By reducing the number of these interneurons, the mice showed signs of impaired memory, increased microglial activation (indicating inflammation), and fewer dendritic spines crucial for learning. The effects observed in the mice were similar to those seen in naturally aged mice, suggesting that this technique could serve as a model for studying age-related memory decline and potential treatments.