Aging reduces motivation through decreasedBdnfexpression in the ventral tegmental area

Abstract

AbstractAge-associated reduced motivation is a hallmark of neuropsychiatric disorders in the elderly. In our rapidly aging societies, it is critical to keep motivation levels high enough to promote healthspan and lifespan. However, how motivation is reduced during aging remains unknown. Here, we used multiple mouse models to evaluate motivation and related affective states in young and old mice. We also compared the effect of social isolation, a common stressor, to those of aging. We found that both social isolation and aging decreased motivation in mice, but thatBdnfexpression in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) was selectively decreased during aging. Furthermore, VTA-specificBdnfknockdown in young mice recapitulated reduced motivation observed in old mice. These results demonstrate that maintainingBdnfexpression in the VTA could promote motivation to engage in effortful activities and potentially prevent age-associated neuropsychiatric disorders.