Neuropsychopharmacol: increased anxiety is associated with accelerated brain aging.
Scientists from Fujita Health University and the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science have identified a biological marker of accelerated brain aging that may be associated with anxiety disorders. The results of the study were published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology.
The specialists analyzed genetic data from 17 mouse models with various neuropsychiatric disorders and discovered the phenomenon of "hyper-maturity" of the hippocampus — the area of the brain responsible for emotions and memory. In such cases, neurons develop and age too quickly, which is accompanied by increased anxiety behavior and impaired emotional regulation.
According to the lead author of the study, Hideo Hagihara, accelerated maturation of the hippocampus may be a common molecular mechanism underlying anxiety, depressive, and schizophrenic disorders. The researchers hope that this marker will become a new diagnostic benchmark and help develop methods for the prevention and treatment of mental illnesses associated with early brain "wear and tear."
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