Brain Aging and Resilience

This book explores the remarkable adaptability of the human brain in the face of aging and adverse conditions. Through the lens of groundbreaking research, personal interactions, anecdotes, and historical context, Dr. Nicolas Bazan challenges current misconceptions about aging and demonstrates how our neural networks can continue to adapt, fostering quality of life as we age.
Brain Aging and Resilience traces the evolution of key neurobiological ideas, from early theories of neural degeneration to the advances in brain plasticity and regenerative medicine. The book delves into diverse topics such as oxidative stress, neurogenesis, the role of lifestyle in cognitive health, and emerging therapeutic avenues that promise to enhance brain resilience. Additionally, Dr. Bazan provides readers with actionable insights into enhancing their own cognitive resilience through scientifically grounded strategies.
“In this remarkable book, Dr. Nicolas G. Bazan presents a truly enlightening, unique, and timely view on aging and longevity. Drawing on his knowledge as a distinguished neuroscientist, he skillfully navigates through the intricate workings of the human brain to unveil hidden secrets to successful, healthy aging. This book is unlike any other on aging because of the author’s rich personal relationships with remarkable individuals who clearly enjoyed healthy aging.”
Lou Ignarro, 1998 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine
“Dr. Nicolas Bazan’s remarkable book is a masterpiece in the art of aging gracefully, a testament to the potential that lies within each of us. With his guidance, we can navigate the intricacies of our aging brains, embrace changes, and pave the way for a future where aging is not a burden but a journey of self-empowerment. He artfully demonstrates how the power of neuroplasticity and the regenerative capacity of our brain cells can be harnessed to promote longevity and resilience as we age.”
—Dr. Susumu Tonegawa from MIT, Massachusetts, 1987 Nobel Prize of Physiology or Medicine
“Nicolas Bazan is a remarkable author and neuroscientist. He is indeed an inspiration and truly a Renaissance man.”
—Dr. Jerome Issac Friedman, 1990 Nobel Prize in Physics
Cover image is an MRI scan of the brain of a man who died at 103 years of age with documented normal cognition, shows moderate to severe generalized brain atrophy but striking preservation of the bilateral anterior cingulate cortex (left side is shown). Microscopic examination of the same patient's anterior cingulate cortex revealed preserved von Economo neuron numbers and morphology. Courtesy William Seeley, MD, University of California, San Francisco.

Nicolas G. Bazan, M.D., Ph.D., is Boyd Professor, and Ernest C. and Yvette C. Villere Chair for Retinal Degenerations, Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Ophthalmology, and Neurology, and Director, Neuroscience Center of Excellence, LSU Health New Orleans—School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana