In research with mice at UT Southwestern Medical Center, a compound dubbed P7C3 enhanced production of new neurons in the hippocampus, a brain area involved in learning and memory.

It could also increase birth and survival of new neurons in older rats, according to statement by UT Southwestern Medical Center. The animals also had improved memory: they could better remember the location of a platform submerged in water, a standard test of learning and memory in rodents.

Scientists ultimately hope that drugs developed to generate and protect new neurons will also protect against the cognitive deficits of dementia and other neurological diseases of aging.