A Blended Vitamin Supplement Improves Spatial Cognitive and Short-Term Memory in Aged Mice

Abstract

Although many types of antioxidant supplements are available, the effect is greater if multiple types are taken simultaneously rather than one type. However, it is difficult to know which type and how much to take, as it is possible to take too many of some vitamins. As it is difficult for general consumers to make this choice, it is important to provide information based on scientific evidence. This study investigated the various effects of continuous administration of a blended supplement to aging mice. In 18-month-old C57BL/6 mice given a blended supplement ad libitum for 1 month, spatial cognition and short-term memory in the Morris water maze and Y-maze improved compared with the normal aged mice (spontaneous alternative ratio, normal aged mice, 49.5%, supplement-treated mice, 68.67%, p < 0.01). No significant differences in brain levels of secreted neurotrophic factors, such as nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor, were observed between these two groups. In treadmill durability tests before and after administration, the rate of increase in running distance after administration was significantly higher than that of the untreated group (increase rate, normal aged mice, 91.17%, supplement-treated aged mice, 111.4%, p < 0.04). However, training had no reinforcing effect, and post-mortem serum tests showed a significant decrease in aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and total cholesterol values. These results suggest continuous intake of a blended supplement may improve cognitive function and suppress age-related muscle decline.