Neurobiologist Mara Dierssen emphasizes the brain's remarkable ability to adapt and learn throughout life, a concept known as neuroplasticity. She highlights that engaging in continuous learning, creative pursuits, and social interactions are crucial for maintaining an active and agile brain, even into advanced age.
Dierssen's research into Down syndrome, where a significant number of individuals develop early-onset Alzheimer's disease, provides valuable insights into cognitive aging. Her work demonstrates that proactive strategies, such as mental stimulation through puzzles, learning new languages or skills, and creative hobbies, alongside strong social connections, are vital for preserving cognitive function.
In 2024, Dierssen's research also explored the potential of lamivudine, an antiretroviral drug, in normalizing the expression of certain genes related to neurological deterioration in Down syndrome models. These findings suggest that lifelong learning, curiosity, and an active social life contribute significantly to keeping the brain adaptable and evolving, promoting overall cognitive well-being.