Effects of cow placenta extract on cognitive function in aged dogs: a randomized controlled trial

Why clinicians should know about it

• Picked for Geriatrics and Gerontology (paper of the day, 24 July 2026).

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Cow placenta extract (CPE) has demonstrated beneficial effects in antiaging; however, its effect on age-related cognitive decline remains unclear. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the potential therapeutic benefits of CPE in improving cognitive function in aged dogs. ANIMALS: The aged dogs (≥7 years) with a Canine Social and Learning Behavior Survey (CSLB) score of ≥ 30 owned by clients. METHODS: A 6-month randomized controlled trial. Eighty-eight dogs received CPE (n = 45) or placebo (n = 43). Canine Social and Learning Behavior Survey questionnaires were administered, and serum oxidative stress markers were assessed. RESULTS: By month 6, the mean ± SD of CSLB was 35.1 ± 4.9 in the CPE group vs 41.1 ± 5.3 (P < .05; Cohen's d = -1.17; 95% CI for d: -1.63 to -0.72) in the placebo group. The successful therapeutic response was 77.8% (95% CI, 63.2-88.0) in the CPE group vs 9.3% (95% CI, 3.1-22.3; P < .001) in the placebo group. The correlation between the change (Δ%) in CSLB and change in malondialdehyde (MDA) was positive (r = 0.77, P < .001), and correlations between the Δ% in CSLB and change in glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and glutathione (GSH) were negative (r = -0.893, P < .001 and r = -0.878, P < .001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: A six-month CPE administration improved cognitive function and oxidative stress in aged dogs, suggesting its potential for long-term management of cognitive impairment.

Abstract as published, via PubMed.