Historic breakthrough in the fight against mental decline: scientists manage to "rejuvenate" the brain with a simple nasal spray

A study conducted by researchers at Texas A&M University’s College of Medicine, led by Naresh K. Vashisht, has found that brain inflammation linked to aging and cognitive decline may be reversible. The solution may not involve surgery, but rather a nasal spray.

The study was led by Dr. Ashok Shetty, a distinguished professor and associate director of the Institute for Regenerative Medicine. His team developed a nasal spray that, with just two doses, reduces brain inflammation, restores the brain’s energy-producing systems, and improves memory.

These findings were published in the Journal of Extracellular Vesicles and could represent a major step forward in the future of therapies for neurodegenerative conditions.

“Brain age-related diseases like dementia are a major health concern worldwide,” Shetty said in a statement. “What we’re showing is brain aging can be reversed, to help people stay mentally sharp, socially engaged and free from age-related decline.”

“As we develop and scale this therapy, a simple, two-dose nasal spray could one day replace invasive, risky procedures or maybe even months of medication,” he added.

Effective in both men and women

One of the most notable aspects of the study is its broad applicability. It showed the same effectiveness in both men and women, which is relatively uncommon in biomedical research. “It’s universal. Treatment outcomes were consistent and similar across both sexes,” Shetty explained.

In the future, this discovery could help people who have suffered a stroke regain brain function or slow age-related cognitive decline.

“Our approach redefines what it means to grow old,” Shetty concluded. “We’re aiming for successful brain aging: keeping people engaged, alert and connected. Not just living longer, but living smarter and healthier.”

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.