A groundbreaking study leverages deep learning and genetic analysis to identify key gene targets and potential drug interventions to mitigate cognitive decline and age-related neurodegeneration.

AI and Gene Research Target Brain Aging

Integrating AI and Genomics to Decipher the Molecular Mechanisms of Brain Aging

In a significant advancement in neuroscience and gerontology, a study published in Science Advances explored the intersection of artificial intelligence and genetic research to uncover gene targets and potential drugs that may slow brain aging. The research was led by Sanjukta Mondal and employed deep learning models trained on vast datasets from the UK Biobank.

The Implications of Brain Aging

Understanding brain aging is critical as it is closely associated with an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline. The study defined the concept of the brain age gap (BAG), which is the difference between an individual’s chronological age and the estimated biological age of their brain, as determined through imaging techniques such as MRI.