The functionality of the human brain could be improved by targeted protein compounds (proteins) that influence various aspects of neuronal communication, plasticity and protective mechanisms. This could be achieved by enhancing natural processes or by introducing new biotechnologically produced proteins. Here are some approaches on how protein compounds could contribute to improving brain function:

1. neurotrophins to promote neuronal growth

BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor): BDNF is a protein that supports the growth and differentiation of neurons and promotes synaptic plasticity. It plays a crucial role in the formation and strengthening of synaptic connections, which are essential for learning and memory.

Potential for improvement: Increasing BDNF levels through targeted protein delivery or biotechnological interventions could enhance neuronal growth and plasticity, leading to improved cognitive function. Clinical studies suggest that higher BDNF levels could reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.

NGF (Nerve Growth Factor): NGF promotes the survival and growth of nerve cells, especially sensory and sympathetic neurones. NGF is essential for the maintenance of neuronal networks and could contribute to slowing down neuronal degeneration.

Potential for improvement: Stimulating NGF production could improve the survival and regeneration of neurons, especially in people with neurological diseases or age-related neuronal degeneration.

2. proteins to improve synaptic plasticity

CaMKII (calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II): This enzyme is crucial for the strengthening of synapses and the formation of long-term memory. It is regulated by the activation of calcium signalling pathways and plays a key role in long-term potentiation (LTP), the mechanism that enables learning and memory.

Potential for improvement: A targeted enhancement of CaMKII activity could accelerate the formation of long-term memory and improve learning. This could be achieved through biotechnologically modified proteins or by activating specific signalling pathways.

Arc (Activity-Regulated Cytoskeleton-Associated Protein): Arc is a protein that plays a central role in synaptic plasticity. It regulates the structure of synapses and the integration of new information into neuronal networks.

Potential for improvement: Targeting Arc expression could increase the efficiency of neuronal networks and improve learning and memory. Researchers are investigating Arc as a potential target for the treatment of memory disorders.

3. proteins to protect against neurodegenerative diseases

Superoxide dismutase (SOD): SOD is an antioxidant enzyme that neutralises reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are responsible for neuronal damage. It protects neurones from oxidative stress, which plays an important role in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Opportunities for improvement: Increased production or supply of SOD could protect brain cells from damage caused by oxidative stress and thus maintain brain function, especially in old age.

Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs): Heat shock proteins are a family of proteins that protect neurons from stress by repairing or degrading damaged proteins and maintaining cell integrity.

Potential for improvement: HSPs could be targeted to improve the brain's ability to repair damaged proteins and slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Clinical approaches to increase HSP activity are currently being researched.

4. proteins to improve mitochondrial function

PGC-1α (Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma Coactivator 1-alpha): This protein regulates energy production in the mitochondria, which is crucial for the brain, as the brain requires large amounts of energy to maintain its functions.

Potential for improvement: Increasing PGC-1α levels could increase energy production in neurons, improving cognitive function and neuronal health. This strategy could be particularly useful in neurodegenerative diseases in which mitochondrial function is impaired.

Sirtuins: Sirtuins are proteins that regulate cellular energy homeostasis and cell longevity. They play a role in the activation of metabolic pathways associated with mitochondrial function and cell survival.

Potential for improvement: The activation of sirtuins could slow down the ageing process of the brain and improve neuroprotective mechanisms. Sirtuins are also a promising target in research to extend lifespan and improve cognitive function.

5. newly developed protein compounds (biotechnological applications)

Artificial neurotransmitter receptors: Bioengineered proteins could be specifically developed to modulate the activity of certain neuronal receptors. For example, artificial receptors could be developed that improve the signalling of glutamate or GABA, which could enhance learning and memory.

Potential for improvement: The targeted use of such receptors could enable the brain to process information faster and more efficiently, which would be particularly beneficial for cognitive impairments.

Optogenetic proteins: These proteins make it possible to activate or inhibit neurones with light. Optogenetic approaches use proteins such as channelrhodopsins to specifically control neuronal activity.

Potential for improvement: Optogenetics could be used to precisely regulate neuronal networks and specifically activate brain regions that are important for learning, memory and cognitive functions.

6. neuropeptides to promote cognitive performance

Oxytocin and vasopressin: These neuropeptides not only influence emotional and social interactions, but also learning and memory processes. They can strengthen synaptic connections in certain regions of the brain, particularly in connection with social learning and memory.

Potential for improvement: The targeted supply of oxytocin or vasopressin could not only improve social behaviour, but also certain memory and learning processes. These neuropeptides are already being investigated in some studies on the treatment of autism and schizophrenia.

7 Future prospects: Genetically modified proteins

CRISPR-Cas9 and protein engineering: CRISPR technology can be used to specifically edit genes that are responsible for the production of certain proteins. This could lead to the production of proteins that are particularly beneficial for the brain, for example by promoting the breakdown of neurotoxic substances or improving synaptic plasticity.

Potential for improvement: By introducing new, optimised proteins, the brain could be more resistant to disease or significantly increase its cognitive performance. Such genetic modification could even help to slow down signs of ageing in the brain.

Summary:

There are many protein compounds that have the potential to improve brain functionality, especially those that support neuronal growth, synaptic plasticity, energy production and neuronal protection. New biotechnological approaches such as the development of artificial proteins, the targeted activation of neuronal networks through optogenetics and genetic modifications open up exciting opportunities to enhance cognitive function and protect the brain from neurodegenerative diseases.

A targeted increase in proteins such as BDNF, NGF and antioxidant enzymes could significantly improve the brain's learning ability, memory and protection. Artificial proteins and genetically modified proteins also offer the opportunity to optimise the brain in a way that was previously only possible in theory.

Diet plays a critical role in supporting the production and function of protein compounds in the human body, including those that are important for brain and cognitive function. Nutrients from the diet provide the necessary building blocks for protein synthesis and support biochemical processes that promote neuronal plasticity, neuronal growth and protection against neurodegenerative diseases. Here are some key nutrients and dietary strategies that can specifically support the formation of new protein compounds and improve brain function:

1. amino acids as building blocks for new proteins

Proteins are made up of amino acids that must be obtained from food. Particularly important are the essential amino acids, which the body cannot produce itself and which must be supplied through food.

Tryptophan: This amino acid is a precursor to serotonin, an important neurotransmitter that influences mood and cognition. Serotonin can also be converted into melatonin, which regulates sleep, which is important for brain recovery and plasticity.

Sources: Tryptophan-rich foods include turkey, eggs, nuts, seeds, cheese and fish.

Tyrosine: This amino acid is a precursor of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is important for motivation, reward and cognitive functions. Dopamine plays a key role in communication between neurones.

Sources: Tyrosine is found in meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, beans and soya products.

Glutamine: Glutamine is a precursor of glutamate, the most important excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, which is responsible for learning and memory.

Sources: Glutamine is found in animal proteins such as meat and fish as well as in plant sources such as spinach and parsley.

2. omega-3 fatty acids: support protein synthesis and plasticity

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), play a central role in the structure and function of brain cells and support protein synthesis and synaptic plasticity.

Function: DHA is an important component of the cell membranes of neurones and supports the fluidity and function of synapses. A sufficient supply of omega-3 fatty acids improves the transmission of signals between neurons and promotes the growth of dendrites, which are crucial for neuronal plasticity.

Sources: Omega-3 fatty acids are mainly found in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines, as well as in plant sources such as chia seeds, linseed and walnuts.

Benefits: Studies show that an increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. Omega-3 fatty acids promote the formation of neurotrophins such as BDNF, which support the growth and repair of neurones.

3 B vitamins: Catalysts for protein synthesis and neuronal health

The B vitamins, especially B6, B9 (folate) and B12, are of crucial importance for protein synthesis and the maintenance of neuronal function.

B6 (pyridoxine): Supports the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and GABA, which control communication between neurones. A B6 deficiency can impair protein synthesis and cognitive function.

Sources: Fish, poultry, potatoes, bananas and fortified cereals.

B9 (folate): Folate is crucial for DNA synthesis and cell division. It supports the production of neurotransmitters and helps with the repair of nerve cells.

Sources: Green leafy vegetables (spinach, kale), pulses, nuts and fortified cereal products.

B12: B12 supports the formation of myelin, the protective layer that surrounds the nerves, and promotes the synthesis of neurotransmitters. A B12 deficiency can lead to cognitive impairment and neuronal damage.

Sources: Meat, fish, dairy products and fortified cereal products.

4. antioxidants: protection against oxidative stress

Antioxidants play an important role in protecting brain cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Oxidative stress can damage neurons and impair synaptic plasticity, which can lead to cognitive decline.

Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that protects the brain from oxidative damage and supports the health of neurones.

Sources: Citrus fruits, berries, peppers and broccoli.

Vitamin E: Protects the cell membranes of neurones and prevents free radicals from damaging the structure and function of nerve cells.

Sources: Nuts, seeds, vegetable oils and green leafy vegetables.

Flavonoids: These plant substances, which are found in berries, green tea and cocoa, have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and promote blood flow to the brain. They improve memory function and protect against neuronal degeneration.

Sources: Berries (especially blueberries), dark chocolate, green tea and grapes.

5. choline: support of acetylcholine production

Choline is an essential nutrient required for the production of acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter that is crucial for memory and learning.

Function: Acetylcholine is responsible for the transmission of signals between neurones and the modulation of memory and attention processes. An increased supply of choline can support the formation of new synapses and synaptic plasticity.

Sources: Foods rich in choline are eggs, beef, fish, chicken liver and soya beans.

6. polyphenols: Promotion of neuronal plasticity

Polyphenols are phytochemicals that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They support brain health by promoting the production of BDNF and improving neuronal plasticity.

Quercetin and resveratrol are examples of polyphenols that have been shown to have neuroprotective effects and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

Sources: Resveratrol is found in red wine, grapes and berries, while quercetin is found in apples, onions and green tea.

7. magnesium: support of NMDA receptor function

Magnesium is an important mineral that supports the activity of NMDA receptors, which are involved in synaptic plasticity and memory.

Function: Magnesium regulates the flow of calcium through NMDA receptors, which is crucial for long-term potentiation (LTP) - a mechanism that supports learning and memory.

Sources: Almonds, pumpkin seeds, spinach, black beans and wholemeal products.

8. curcumin: promotes the growth and protection of neurones

Curcumin, the active molecule in turmeric, has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that promote brain health. Curcumin stimulates the production of BDNF and protects neurons from inflammation and oxidative damage.

Function: Curcumin can promote the growth of new neurones and improve synaptic plasticity. It is also being investigated whether curcumin can reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.

Sources: Turmeric (best in combination with black pepper to improve bioavailability).

9. zinc and iron: Support for cognitive function

Zinc: Zinc plays a role in the regulation of neurotransmitters and synaptic plasticity. A lack of zinc can impair learning and memory.

Sources: Meat, shellfish, nuts and seeds.