Neuroscientist Dr Lila Landowski speaks on ABC Radio National Drive with Andy Park, discussing three new studies - one on the selective hearing of teens, improving memory in old mice, and PFAS in firefighters

Keywords

neuroscience, aging, memory, teenagers, selective hearing, blood donation, fibroblast growth factor, cerebrospinal fluid, oligodendrocytes, PFAS

Summary

In this conversation, neuroscientist Dr Lila Landowski discusses groundbreaking research on aging, memory enhancement, and the unique auditory processing of teenagers. She explains how specific proteins can rejuvenate memory in older mice and explores the shift in teenagers' responses to their mothers' voices as they approach puberty. Additionally, she highlights the health benefits of blood donation, particularly in reducing harmful chemicals in the bloodstream.

Takeaways

Fibroblast growth factor 17 can enhance memory in older mice.

Cerebrospinal fluid plays a crucial role in brain function.

Teenagers' brains prioritize social voices over their mother's voice.

The age of 13 marks a significant change in auditory processing.

Independence during adolescence is linked to evolutionary survival.

Blood donation can help eliminate harmful forever chemicals.

Oligodendrocytes are essential for efficient brain function.

The brain's reward pathways change during puberty.

Research shows the importance of social learning in adolescence.

Donating blood has personal health benefits beyond societal contributions.

Titles

Unlocking the Secrets of Memory and Aging

Teenage Hearing: The Shift from Mom to Social Voices

Chapters

01:46 Neuroscience of Aging and Memory

04:47 Teenagers and Selective Hearing

07:37 The Benefits of Blood Donation

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