Zurich Research on Brain Aging Receives 4 Million Francs in Funding

(CONNECT) An international research team led by the University of Zurich (UZH) aims to determine whether metabolic drugs can slow down the aging processes in the human brain. According to a press release from the university, the researchers are receiving a grant of 4 million Swiss francs from the Lugano-based Horten Health Foundation to fund this research. In addition to the University Psychiatric Hospital of Zurich (PUK), the University of Basel and Stanford University in the U.S. state of California are participating in the PROMOTE research project.

Researchers view brain age as an important indicator of the health of the human brain. Aging processes can be identified by memory impairments and mental health conditions. To counteract the aging process, researchers are using GLP-1 antagonists in clinical trials. These medications are used to treat metabolic disorders such as diabetes mellitus and are considered to be well tolerated. Initial studies in the PROMOTE research series have shown that the drugs also offer a protective effect for the brain. With funding from the Horten Health Foundation, the scientists plan to investigate whether aging processes can also be slowed down. The findings from the research are expected to lead to new treatment approaches. ce/ww