Nasal Spray Reverses Brain Aging and Restores Memory in Aging Mice
- Scientists at Texas A&M University have developed a nasal spray that reverses brain aging in mice by reducing inflammation and restoring memory, according to recent research published in...
- In preclinical trials, the nasal spray was administered to 18-month-old mice, which correspond to humans in their late 50s to late 60s.
- The therapy specifically targets microglia, the brain’s immune cells, in the hippocampus — a region critical for learning and memory.
Scientists at Texas A&M University have developed a nasal spray that reverses brain aging in mice by reducing inflammation and restoring memory, according to recent research published in April 2026. The treatment uses extracellular vesicles derived from human stem cells to target neuroinflammaging — chronic inflammation in the brain linked to age-related cognitive decline.
In preclinical trials, the nasal spray was administered to 18-month-old mice, which correspond to humans in their late 50s to late 60s. After just two doses, researchers observed a significant reduction in brain inflammation, restoration of cellular energy production, and improved memory function that lasted for months.
The therapy specifically targets microglia, the brain’s immune cells, in the hippocampus — a region critical for learning and memory. By delivering stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles through the nasal route, the treatment bypasses the need for invasive procedures and allows direct access to the brain.
Dr. Ashok Shetty, university distinguished professor and associate director of the Institute for Regenerative Medicine at Texas A&M, led the research team. He stated that the approach could one day replace risky surgeries or long-term medication regimens for age-related brain decline.
The nasal spray works by addressing the root cause of cognitive aging: persistent low-grade inflammation that impairs neural function over time. Researchers compared this process to a car engine running hot, where tiny “fires” of inflammation degrade performance and increase the risk of disorders like Alzheimer’s disease.
While the results are promising, the study was conducted in animal models, and further research is needed to determine whether similar effects can be achieved in humans. The research team emphasized that clinical trials will be necessary to assess safety and efficacy before any potential human application.
Experts involved in the study noted that treatment outcomes were consistent across both male and female mice, suggesting broad applicability if the therapy advances to human testing. The use of stem cell byproducts rather than live cells also improves the safety profile of the approach.
As of April 2026, the findings remain in the preclinical stage. Scientists continue to study the long-term effects and scalability of the treatment, with the goal of developing a simple, accessible intervention for age-related cognitive decline.