The project aims to uncover the brain mechanisms underlying aging and explore ways to maintain or restore brain function. It focuses on astrocytes, specialized brain cells that support neurons and regulate their activity and communication. Specifically, the team seeks to identify molecules from astrocytes that may help restore healthy function in aging or diseased neurons.
Alongside this work, the project aims to develop an improved drug-screening platform for evaluating candidate therapeutic compounds more efficiently and reliably. This platform will facilitate the identification and testing of substances that may help preserve or improve neuronal function.
Together, these efforts are expected to advance our understanding of brain aging and lay the groundwork for developing potential treatments for age-related neurological disorders, including dementia. In the long term, the work seeks to promote healthy aging by helping individuals preserve cognitive function and manage daily life, particularly in aging societies such as Japan.
