Neuropeptide Y and Autophagy Protect Synapses in the Aging Brain

A recent publication involving NeuroCure PIs Stephan Sigrist, Dietmar Schmitz, and Volker Haucke sheds light on the role of Neuropeptide Y (NPY) and autophagy in the brain during the aging process.

Autophagy is a cellular mechanism that breaks down damaged or old cellular components, thereby ensuring cell health. As we age, the efficiency of this cleaning process declines, which can impair the function of neurons and their synaptic connections. NPY, a signaling molecule abundantly present in the mammalian brain, is already known for its involvement in autophagy and aging processes.

The new study demonstrates that NPY and autophagy in NPY/AgRP neurons of the hypothalamus work together to maintain the organization and function of synapses during aging. By releasing NPY and possibly other signals, these neurons support synaptic resilience and help preserve a healthy brain and stable metabolism.

These findings provide important insights into the molecular mechanisms of healthy aging and open up potential avenues for preventing age-related neurological diseases.

The full study is available as a preprint at:
https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.06.20.660653v1.full