Scientists have identified a DMTF1 protein that can restore the regenerative capacity of neural stem cells (NSCs) damaged by aging.[1][3][4] DMTF1 levels decline in aging NSCs, preventing their regeneration and promoting declines in memory and learning.[1][2][4] The research used human NSCs and laboratory models of premature aging with damaged telomeres, which progressively shorten as cells divide.[1][3][4] Restoration of DMTF1 expression is sufficient to restore the regenerative abilities of these cells.[1][3][4] The DMTF1 protein controls the accessory genes Arid2 and Ss18, which release DNA and activate growth genes.[1][3][4] Without these genes, NSCs lose their ability to self-renew.[1][3][4] The findings implicate DMTF1 as a potential therapeutic target to slow or reverse NSC decline in brain aging.[1][3][4] The study is mainly based on in vitro experiments and mouse models.[3][4][5]