Aging alters the molecular dynamics of synapses in a sexually dimorphic pattern in zebrafish (Danio rerio).

The zebrafish has become a popular model for studying normal brain aging due to its large fecundity, conserved genome, and available genetic tools; but little data exists about neurobiological age-related alterations. The current study tested the hypothesis of an association between brain aging and synaptic protein loss across males and females. Western blot analysis of synaptophysin (SYP), a presynaptic vesicle protein, and postsynaptic density-95 (PSD-95) and gephyrin (GEP), excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic receptor-clustering proteins, respectively, was performed in young, middle-aged, and old male and female zebrafish (Danio rerio) brains.

Short-term dietary restriction in old zebrafish changes cell senescence mechanisms.

Brain aging is marked by a decline in cognitive abilities and associated with neurodegenerative disorders. Recent studies have shown, neurogenesis continues into adulthood but is known to be decreasing during advancing age and these changes may contribute to cognitive alterations. Advances, which aim to promote better aging are of paramount importance.