Ketone Diet Boost Could Be Key for Ailing Brains: New Study Reveals
Could a low-carb diet rich in ketones be the key to a sharper mind, even as we age? A groundbreaking study suggests that ketone bodies, the fuel created by our bodies when we fast or follow a ketogenic diet, may directly combat the very proteins that accumulate in brain diseases like Alzheimer’s.
This isn’t just about energy. Researchers at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging have discovered that a specific ketone body, beta-hydroxybutyrate (β-hydroxybutyrate), acts as a kind of molecular janitor for the brain. It binds to damaged proteins, causing them to clump together and become easier for the brain to eliminate through a process called autophagy.
"It’s completely new biology," said senior author Dr. John Newman, an assistant professor at the Buck. "We always thought ketone bodies were helpful because they provided energy to the brain or reduced inflammation, but this shows they directly interact with damaged proteins, making them easier to remove."
This discovery came after a series of experiments:
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Test Tube Success: Researchers found that β-hydroxybutyrate altered the solubility of misfolded proteins, making them insoluble and thus easier to target for removal.
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Mouse Models Confirm: Mice treated with ketone esters showed a reduction in the buildup of insoluble brain proteins, suggesting a clear link between ketones and improved protein clearance.
- Worm Rescue: Even tiny nematode worms genetically programmed to develop amyloid beta plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s, showed improvement when treated with ketones, regaining their ability to move freely.
The study, published in Cell Chemical Biology, not only sheds light on a potential new treatment avenue for brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases but also reveals a fascinating connection between metabolism and the lasting health of our brains.
"We’re just scratching the surface," says Dr. Newman, emphasizing the potential of this discovery. "Ketone bodies are easy to manipulate both experimentally and therapeutically, making this a powerful avenue for globally clearing damaged proteins."
While more research is needed, these findings offer a compelling glimpse into a future where the ketogenic diet, or supplementary ketone treatments, might play a significant role in preserving brain health as we age.
