As the population ages, the incidence of chronic diseases such as Alzheimer’s and diabetes is rising. This trend places significant pressure on public healthcare systems due to increased medical costs. Although various drugs exist for these conditions, many age-related diseases lack effective treatments. Consequently, research focuses not only on therapeutic drug development but also on preventive measures. Oxidative stress plays a key role in aging and related diseases. The body’s antioxidant system, which detoxifies oxidative stress products, weakens with age, necessitating dietary antioxidants to maintain redox balance.
Study Purpose
This study investigates the effects of a blended vitamin supplement, Twendee X (TwX), on cognitive function and physical performance in aged mice. The supplement contains a combination of antioxidants designed to enhance cognitive and motor functions, potentially preventing age-related decline.
Methods
Subjects
The study used 18-month-old C57BL/6 mice. The mice were divided into two groups: a control group receiving normal water and a treatment group receiving TwX-containing water. Both groups had free access to their respective water supplies for 1.5 months, including a 1-month treatment period and a 0.5-month behavioral testing period.
Behavioral Tests
- Morris Water Maze: Assessed spatial learning and memory by measuring the time taken to reach a hidden platform in a water-filled pool over multiple trials.
- Y-Maze: Evaluated short-term memory and exploratory behavior by recording spontaneous alternation behavior in a three-arm maze.
- Rota-Rod Test: Measured motor coordination and balance by recording the time and speed at which mice fell off a rotating rod.
- Treadmill Endurance Test: Assessed physical endurance by measuring the running distance before and after a 1-month treatment period.
Molecular Analyses
Western blotting and serum analyses were conducted to measure levels of neurotrophic factors and various serum parameters, including aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and total cholesterol (T-CHO).
Results
Body Weight and Intake
No significant differences were observed in body weight, food intake, or water intake between the control and TwX-treated groups. This indicates that TwX does not affect normal feeding behavior or body weight.
Spatial Cognitive Ability
The Morris water maze test showed that TwX-treated mice reached the platform faster than control mice, particularly from the third day onwards. The average time spent on the platform was significantly longer in TwX-treated mice, indicating improved spatial memory.
Short-Term Memory and Exploratory Behavior
In the Y-maze test, TwX-treated mice exhibited a higher spontaneous alternation ratio compared to control mice, indicating enhanced short-term memory. However, there were no significant differences in the total number of arm entries, suggesting that exploratory behavior was not affected by TwX treatment.
Coordination and Endurance
The rota-rod test results showed no significant differences in motor coordination between the groups. The treadmill endurance test revealed that the rate of increase in running distance was significantly higher in TwX-treated mice, suggesting improved physical endurance.
Neurotrophic Factors
Contrary to expectations, Western blot analyses showed no significant differences in the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) between the control and TwX-treated groups.
Serum Parameters
Serum analyses indicated significant improvements in AST, ALT, and T-CHO levels in TwX-treated mice, suggesting enhanced liver function and overall health benefits from the supplement.
Discussion
Implications for Cognitive Function
The study demonstrates that continuous intake of the blended vitamin supplement TwX can significantly improve spatial learning, short-term memory, and physical endurance in aged mice. These findings highlight the potential of antioxidant supplements in mitigating age-related cognitive decline.
Mechanisms of Action
Although the exact mechanisms remain unclear, the study suggests that the combined antioxidant properties of the supplement’s components, including coenzyme Q10, vitamins C and E, and amino acids, contribute to its beneficial effects. Further research is needed to elucidate the detailed pathways through which TwX enhances cognitive and physical functions.
Future Research
Future studies should investigate the long-term effects of TwX and similar supplements on cognitive and physical health. Additionally, research should explore the potential for these supplements to prevent or delay the onset of neurodegenerative diseases and other age-related conditions.
Conclusion
This study provides evidence that a blended vitamin supplement can improve cognitive and physical performance in aged mice. The findings support the potential use of such supplements in promoting healthy aging and preventing cognitive decline.
References
For further details, you can access the full study here.
