June is Seniors Month, a time to celebrate the wisdom, resilience, and contributions of older adults across Canada and beyond. At Ben-Gurion University Canada, we are proud to be at the forefront of research that directly impacts the lives of seniors. From exploring the molecular roots of memory loss to lifestyle interventions that protect the aging brain, here are three incredible breakthroughs from BGU researchers that give us real hope for the future:
[L-R] Prof. Angel Porgador, Prof. Mark Schvartzman, and PhD student Abed Al Kader Yassin | Photo: Dani Machlis/BGU
1. Nanotechnology Boosts Immune Cell Performance
Scientists at Ben-Gurion University have made a breakthrough in cancer treatment by enhancing the performance of immune cells using nanotechnology. This advancement could lead to more effective and durable CAR T-cell therapies to better target and destroy cancer cells. This new approach aims to improve the success of these therapies and make them more widely available for cancer patients. Learn more.
2. Blocking PTEN to Restore Memory
In September 2023, researchers at BGU, led by Shira Knafo, made a major breakthrough in understanding how memory is affected in Alzheimer’s patients. They found that too much of a protein called PTEN in brain connections causes memory loss and cognitive decline. Knafo’s team developed a peptide that blocks PTEN’s harmful effects. When they tested it on mice, the treatment brought back both memory and brain function, reversing their cognitive issues. This discovery is a hopeful step forward in Alzheimer’s research. Learn More.
3. Mankai Plant Shown to Lower Post Meal Blood Sugar
In august 2024, a clinical trial led by researchers from BGU and Sheba Medical Center found that consuming Mankai, a unique plant based protein, can reduce blood sugar levels after meals in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The study showed that Mankais effect on blood sugar control was comparable to that of certain medications, offering a natural dietary intervention with powerful results. High post-meal blood sugar is a major risk factor for serious conditions such as heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and vision loss. This research highlights of plant based nutrition in preventing complications associated with aging and chronic illness. Learn More.
4. Slowing Brain Aging with the Green Mediterranean Diet
In 2024, new findings built on a 2022 study by BGU professor Iris Shai and her team, showing even stronger evidence that a specific plant-forward Green Mediterranean diet can significantly slow down brain aging. The diet includes traditional Mediterranean staples such as vegetables and olive oil but adds high levels of polyphenols (naturally occurring plant-based compounds) from sources such as duckweed and walnuts. The updated research found that people with lower long-term blood sugar levels (measured by HbA1c) had healthier brain regions responsible for memory, movement, and senses, showing how metabolic health and brain health are tightly linked in aging populations. Learn More.
