Brain cells called astrocytes regulate memory and learning abilities. The transcription factor NFIA regulates astrocyte development. Mice without NFIA had defective astrocytes in the hippocampus.

Rapamycin, a drug that has been studied for its longevity-promoting effects, reversed gum disease, reduced inflammation, and created new tooth bone growth in a study of mice.

Age-related hearing loss (ARHL), also known as presbycusis, affects 1 in 5 people over age 50 and is irreversible. Mitochondrial dysfunction could cause the neuron loss associated with ARHL.

When nerve cells in the brain called nociceptin neurons are activated, mice saw an increase in high-fat food consumption. When the neurons were removed, they no longer over-consumed high-fat foods.