The ageing cortical synapse: Hallmarks and implications for cognitive decline

John Morrison; Mark G. Baxter

doi:10.1038/nrn3200

The ageing cortical synapse: Hallmarks and implications for cognitive decline

John Morrison, Mark G. Baxter

Research output: Contribution to journal › Review article › peer-review

422 Scopus citations

Abstract

Normal ageing is associated with impairments in cognitive function, including memory. These impairments are linked, not to a loss of neurons in the forebrain, but to specific and relatively subtle synaptic alterations in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Here, we review studies that have shed light on the cellular and synaptic changes observed in these brain structures during ageing that can be directly related to cognitive decline in young and aged animals. We also discuss the influence of the hormonal status on these age-related alterations and recent progress in the development of therapeutic strategies to limit the impact of ageing on memory and cognition in humans.

Original language	English (US)
Pages (from-to)	240-250
Number of pages	11
Journal	Nature Reviews Neuroscience
Volume	13
Issue number	4
DOIs	https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3200
State	Published - Apr 1 2012
Externally published	Yes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Neuroscience(all)

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