Decreased Flow of Interstitial Fluid in the Brain After 50 Years of Age
Recent studies have shown that there is a decline in the drainage of interstitial fluid from the brain as individuals age. This drainage occurs through various pathways in the body, including the cribriform plate and the glymphatic system. As individuals get older, these pathways become less efficient, leading to a buildup of metabolic waste products in the brain. These waste products, such as protein aggregates, are linked to neurodegenerative conditions.
To investigate age-related changes in interstitial flow in the brain, researchers used [15O]H2O positron emission tomography (PET) on 63 healthy adults aged between 20 and 80 years. The study evaluated interstitial flow through parameters such as influx ratio (IR) and drain rate (DR) using time-activity concentration data.
Results showed a decline in interstitial flow with age, particularly after 50 years. There was a significant negative correlation between age and both IR and DR, indicating a decrease in these factors as individuals age. These findings are crucial in understanding the role of interstitial flow in waste product removal and may help in developing treatments for neurological diseases associated with waste product accumulation. It is important to consider measures to maintain interstitial flow, especially around the age of 50 years.
Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2024.05.006
