Less oxygen for better cognition - EPO for cognitive aging

As the demographic shift towards an older population accelerates, identifying approaches for preserving and restoring cognition in old age is of unprecedented importance.

The project builds on the important finding that the hormone erythropoietin (EPO) is expressed not only in the body but also in the brain where it increases the brain’s capacity for change (neuroplasticity) and for generating new neurons (neurogenesis).

EPO administered via injection has well-known pro-cognitive effects, but it is also possible to increase brain EPO by temporarily reducing oxygen availability and achieving a mild state of hypoxia.

The goal of this 4-year project is therefore to investigate if repeated mild hypoxia, so-called hypoxia conditioning, can rejuvenate the old brain and thereby promote cognitive function in aging.

After a detailed mapping of circulating EPO during hypoxia conditioning in the first study, the second study will test the effects of hypoxia conditioning on hippocampal function and its consequences for memory and learning in aging.

Using targeted cognitive assessments, magnetic resonance brain imaging and blood sampling, the study will test if hypoxia conditioning improves cognition and brain function in a way that is in line with the expected effects of brain EPO.

This research will enhance our grasp of brain plasticity in the elderly and advance hypoxia conditioning as a potential remedy for cognitive aging, fostering independence in old age and benefiting society.