Klotho's neuroprotective effect on dementia
Klotho, a gene found on chromosome 13q12, is involved in a variety of processes and signaling pathways in the human body related to vitamin D metabolism; cardiovascular, renal, musculoskeletal, and skin diseases; and cancer biology.
However, more importantly, it has been linked to beneficial effects related to anti-aging.
The levels of soluble Klotho in the blood have been found to decline with age, increasing the risk of age-related diseases.
When the Klotho gene was silenced or defective, it caused a shorter lifespan.
However, when the gene was overexpressed, it resulted in a longer lifespan.
Klotho has positive benefits on the neurological system by causing a higher representation of useful longevity genes, preventing further neuronal damage, and offering neuroprotection.
Thus, it has the potential to become a new treatment for many age-related diseases that cause dementia, including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease.