Study Identifies Key Proteins and Critical Ages for Brain Aging

Research highlights three pivotal stages of brain aging and potential blood biomarkers for early detection and intervention.

Researchers identified 13 proteins in blood plasma linked to brain aging, with Brevican (BCAN) and GDF15 emerging as key markers for cognitive health and disease risk.
The study pinpointed three critical ages—57, 70, and 78—when significant changes in brain aging-related proteins occur, offering potential windows for intervention.
BCAN is associated with healthier brain structures, while GDF15 is linked to increased risks of dementia and stroke due to its role in stress and inflammation pathways.
The findings, based on data from nearly 11,000 brain scans and 4,700 blood samples, suggest that blood tests could one day enable earlier detection of brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases.
Future research aims to explore how these protein levels can be modified through lifestyle changes or targeted treatments to slow brain aging and prevent disease.