Breakthrough Study Shows Nasal Spray Could Slow Brain Ageing

Researchers have developed an experimental nasal spray treatment that may help reduce brain inflammation and improve memory, raising new possibilities for tackling age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative conditions. The study was carried out at the Texas A&M University College of Medicine, where scientists examined whether targeted delivery of biological compounds through the nose could influence brain function and slow aspects of brain ageing. Researchers say the findings suggest that certain effects of ageing on the brain may be more modifiable than previously understood, particularly when inflammation in memory-related regions is addressed.

As people age, the brain can experience a gradual build-up of low-level inflammation in areas responsible for memory and learning. This process, known as “neuroinflammaging,” has been associated with slower thinking, reduced memory performance, and a higher risk of conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The research team noted that targeting this inflammation could be key to preserving cognitive function in older adults.

The study was led by Professor Ashok Shetty, alongside researchers Madhu Leelavathi Narayana and Maheedhar Kodali. The team used tiny biological particles known as extracellular vesicles as the basis for the treatment. These vesicles carry microRNAs, which help regulate gene activity in cells. When delivered via a nasal spray, they are able to travel directly to the brain, bypassing the blood-brain barrier, which typically limits the effectiveness of many treatments.

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Once in the brain, the treatment was found to reduce inflammation and improve the function of mitochondria, the structures responsible for producing energy in brain cells. This improvement is believed to support better cognitive performance. In experimental models, subjects that received the nasal spray showed improvements in memory-related tasks, including better recognition of familiar objects and improved responses to environmental changes.

Researchers observed that some of these improvements appeared within weeks of treatment and, in certain cases, lasted for several months, suggesting a potentially sustained impact on brain function. The findings were published in the Journal of Extracellular Vesicles, a peer-reviewed scientific journal focused on cellular communication and regenerative medicine.

Scientists believe the results could eventually contribute to new treatments for dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other age-related neurological disorders, as well as recovery therapies for stroke patients. However, the researchers stressed that the work is still in its early stages and has so far only been tested in experimental models.

Experts involved in the study cautioned that human clinical trials are necessary before any conclusions can be drawn about safety, effectiveness, or long-term use. They also noted that while early results are promising, many treatments that succeed in laboratory studies do not always produce the same outcomes in humans.

Despite these limitations, the study represents an important step in understanding how brain inflammation, cellular energy loss, and ageing are connected. Researchers say the goal is not only to treat disease but also to support healthier brain ageing, helping people maintain memory, focus, and mental performance later in life.

Breakthrough Study Shows Nasal Spray Could Slow Brain Ageing

Meningitis Outbreak in Sokoto State Kills 34, Infects 254 Across Nine LGAs

A meningitis outbreak in Sokoto State has claimed at least 34 lives and infected 254 persons across nine Local Government Areas (LGAs), prompting urgent public health interventions by the state government. The State Commissioner for Health, Faruk Abubakar-Wurno, disclosed this on Wednesday while briefing journalists on the severity and spread of the outbreak, describing it as a serious public health emergency in Sokoto State.

To contain the spread, the Sokoto State Government has established isolation and treatment centres in Dogondaji and Kurawa communities, located in Tambuwal and Sabon Birni LGAs. Health authorities confirmed that 201 patients treated in government health facilities have been discharged, indicating some progress in managing the outbreak and stabilising infected patients.

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The commissioner provided a breakdown of confirmed cases across the nine affected LGAs: Sabon Birni recorded 63 cases, Wamakko 60, Shagari 51, Tambuwal 34, Dange-Shuni 26, Kebbe 16, Bodinga 2, Kware 2, and Gada 1. He added that laboratory tests confirmed eight positive cases of meningitis, raising concerns about ongoing community transmission.

Health officials noted that children between the ages of one and 15 years are the most affected group in the outbreak. They also identified overcrowding, dry weather conditions, and extreme heat as key factors driving the spread of meningitis infection in Sokoto communities, especially during the current seasonal conditions.

The Sokoto State Government has intensified disease surveillance, contact tracing, and public awareness campaigns across affected LGAs to curb further spread. Residents have been urged to adopt preventive measures such as sleeping in well-ventilated spaces and maintaining proper hygiene, particularly during periods of extreme heat that increase vulnerability to infection.

The commissioner further disclosed that surveillance officers have been deployed across affected areas, while laboratory capacity and access to essential medications have been strengthened to ensure faster diagnosis and treatment. Authorities say these coordinated efforts are aimed at containing the meningitis outbreak in Sokoto State and preventing further loss of lives as monitoring continues.

Meningitis Outbreak in Sokoto State Kills 34, Infects 254 Across Nine LGAs

5 Early Signs of Stomach Cancer You Should Not Ignore

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a condition that begins when abnormal cells grow in the lining of the stomach. The stomach plays an essential role in digestion, breaking down food and helping the body absorb nutrients. Because early symptoms are often mild or similar to common digestive issues, many cases are not detected until later stages.

Health experts, including global cancer organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), emphasise that early detection of stomach cancer symptoms greatly improves treatment outcomes. This makes it important to pay attention to persistent or unusual changes in the body.

Below are five early warning signs of stomach cancer you should not ignore:

1. Persistent indigestion or heartburn

Frequent indigestion or heartburn that lasts for weeks should not be dismissed as normal. While occasional discomfort after meals is common, ongoing burning pain or upper abdominal discomfort that does not improve with medication may indicate a deeper digestive problem that requires medical evaluation.

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2. Unexplained weight loss

Sudden or gradual unexplained weight loss without changes in diet or physical activity is a major warning sign. It may occur when the stomach is not processing food properly or when appetite significantly reduces. Any continuous drop in weight without clear cause should be checked by a healthcare professional.

3. Feeling full after eating little food

Also known as early satiety, this symptom occurs when a person feels full after eating only a small amount. This could suggest that the stomach is not functioning normally. Over time, it may lead to reduced food intake, fatigue, and nutritional deficiencies.

4. Frequent bloating, nausea, or stomach discomfort

While occasional bloating is normal, frequent bloating, nausea, or persistent stomach discomfort—especially after small meals—can be a warning sign. When these symptoms become regular rather than occasional, they should not be ignored.

5. Difficulty swallowing

Difficulty swallowing food or liquids, known as dysphagia, may start gradually but worsen over time. It may feel like food is stuck in the throat or chest. Persistent swallowing difficulties should be assessed promptly by a medical professional.

When to see a doctor

Doctors recommend seeking medical attention if one or more of these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks. Diagnostic tests such as endoscopy, scans, and laboratory investigations can help determine the cause and rule out serious conditions like stomach cancer.

Although these symptoms do not always mean cancer, early medical evaluation is key to identifying health problems early and improving treatment success.

5 Early Signs of Stomach Cancer You Should Not Ignore