Study: Young People's Blood Plasma Rejuvenates Old Mice

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Researchers have discovered that blood plasma from young people can rejuvenate old mice.

New Scientist reports the blood plasma improved the memory, cognition and physical activity of the mice.

The company Alkahest injected the 12-month-old mice with the blood plasma twice a week for three weeks. A 12-month-old mouse is the equivalent of a 50-year-old person.

After the three weeks, the researchers found that the mice's performance compared to 3-month-old mice, and old mice who did not receive the injections.

"Young human plasma improves cognition," Sakura Minami of Alkahest told New Scientist. "Their memory was preserved."

Researchers said that the young human plasma helped the mice better remember a maze than untreated mice.

Researchers also examined the brains of the treated and untreated mice, and found that the treated mice had new cells in their brains.

"Young human plasma treatment can increase neurogenesis," Minami told New Scientist.

Minami added they are hoping to use their findings for anti-ageing treatments for people. According to New Scientist, Alkahest started a trial of young blood in people suffering from Alzheimer's disease.

"There's anecdotal evidence that people experience benefits after blood transfusions," Minami said.

Minami presented the company's findings at the Society for Neuroscience annual meeting in San Diego.