Are age-related behavioral disorders improved by folate administration?

Abstract

In this brief review of the possible link between age-related behavioral disorders and brain folate levels, preliminary data on humans and animals are presented. These data indicate that folate administration may improve some age-related behavioral dysfunctions. In aged humans and rats, there is a defect in the absorption of dietary folate, leading perhaps to a decrease in brain folate levels. If so, folate therapy may replenish brain stores of folates and may reverse some age-related behavioral deficits. Some questions concerning the possible relationship among mood status, intellectual functions, and folate levels in aging are discussed.