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Keiser AA, Dong TN, Kramár EA, Butler CW, Chen S, Matheos DP, Rounds JS, Rodriguez A, Beardwood JH, Augustynski AS, Al-Shammari A, Alaghband Y, Alizo Vera V, Berchtold NC, Shanur S, Baldi P, Cotman CW, Wood MA. Specific exercise patterns generate an epigenetic molecular memory window that drives long-term memory formation and identifies ACVR1C as a bidirectional regulator of memory in mice. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3836. [PMID: 38714691 PMCID: PMC11076285 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47996-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Exercise has beneficial effects on cognition throughout the lifespan. Here, we demonstrate that specific exercise patterns transform insufficient, subthreshold training into long-term memory in mice. Our findings reveal a potential molecular memory window such that subthreshold training within this window enables long-term memory formation. We performed RNA-seq on dorsal hippocampus and identify genes whose expression correlate with conditions in which exercise enables long-term memory formation. Among these genes we found Acvr1c, a member of the TGF ß family. We find that exercise, in any amount, alleviates epigenetic repression at the Acvr1c promoter during consolidation. Additionally, we find that ACVR1C can bidirectionally regulate synaptic plasticity and long-term memory in mice. Furthermore, Acvr1c expression is impaired in the aging human and mouse brain, as well as in the 5xFAD mouse model, and over-expression of Acvr1c enables learning and facilitates plasticity in mice. These data suggest that promoting ACVR1C may protect against cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley A Keiser
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Tri N Dong
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Enikö A Kramár
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Christopher W Butler
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Siwei Chen
- Institute for Genomics and Bioinformatics, School of Information and Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Dina P Matheos
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Jacob S Rounds
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Alyssa Rodriguez
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Joy H Beardwood
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Agatha S Augustynski
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Ameer Al-Shammari
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Yasaman Alaghband
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Vanessa Alizo Vera
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Nicole C Berchtold
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Sharmin Shanur
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Pierre Baldi
- Institute for Genomics and Bioinformatics, School of Information and Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Carl W Cotman
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Marcelo A Wood
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
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Gao Y, Syed M, Zhao X. Mechanisms underlying the effect of voluntary running on adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Hippocampus 2023; 33:373-390. [PMID: 36892196 PMCID: PMC10566571 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.23520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
Adult hippocampal neurogenesis is important for preserving learning and memory-related cognitive functions. Physical exercise, especially voluntary running, is one of the strongest stimuli to promote neurogenesis and has beneficial effects on cognitive functions. Voluntary running promotes exit of neural stem cells (NSCs) from the quiescent stage, proliferation of NSCs and progenitors, survival of newborn cells, morphological development of immature neuron, and integration of new neurons into the hippocampal circuitry. However, the detailed mechanisms driving these changes remain unclear. In this review, we will summarize current knowledge with respect to molecular mechanisms underlying voluntary running-induced neurogenesis, highlighting recent genome-wide gene expression analyses. In addition, we will discuss new approaches and future directions for dissecting the complex cellular mechanisms driving change in adult-born new neurons in response to physical exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Gao
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Moosa Syed
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Xinyu Zhao
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
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Hippocampus-sensitive and striatum-sensitive learning one month after morphine or cocaine exposure in male rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2022; 217:173392. [PMID: 35513118 PMCID: PMC9796089 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2022.173392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
These experiments examined whether morphine and cocaine alter the balance between hippocampal and striatal memory systems measured long after drug exposure. Male rats received injections of morphine (5 mg/kg), cocaine (20 mg/kg), or saline for five consecutive days. One month later, rats were trained to find food on a hippocampus-sensitive place task or a striatum-sensitive response task. Relative to saline controls, morphine-treated rats exhibited impaired place learning but enhanced response learning; prior cocaine exposure did not significantly alter learning on either task. Another set of rats was trained on a dual-solution T-maze that can be solved with either place or response strategies. While a majority (67%) of control rats used place solutions, morphine treatment one month prior resulted in the exclusive use of response solutions (100%). Prior cocaine treatment did not significantly alter strategy selection. Molecular markers related to learning and drug abuse were measured in the hippocampus and striatum one month after drug exposure in behaviorally untested rats. Protein levels of glial-fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), an intermediate filament specific to astrocytes, increased significantly in the hippocampus after morphine exposure, but not after cocaine exposure. Exposure to morphine or cocaine did not significantly change levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) or a downstream target of BDNF signaling, glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β), in the hippocampus or striatum. Thus, exposure to morphine resulted in a long-lasting shift from hippocampal toward striatal dominance during learning, an effect that may be associated with lasting alterations in hippocampal astrocytes. Cocaine produced changes in the same direction, suggesting that use of a higher dose or longer duration of exposure might produce effects comparable to those seen with morphine.
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Scavuzzo CJ, Newman LA, Gold PE, Korol DL. Time-dependent changes in hippocampal and striatal glycogen long after maze training in male rats. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2021; 185:107537. [PMID: 34634434 PMCID: PMC8672440 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2021.107537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Long-lasting biological changes reflecting past experience have been studied in and typically attributed to neurons in the brain. Astrocytes, which are also present in large number in the brain, have recently been found to contribute critically to learning and memory processing. In the brain, glycogen is primarily found in astrocytes and is metabolized to lactate, which can be released from astrocytes. Here we report that astrocytes themselves have intrinsic neurochemical plasticity that alters the availability and provision of metabolic substrates long after an experience. Rats were trained to find food on one of two versions of a 4-arm maze: a hippocampus-sensitive place task and a striatum-sensitive response task. Remarkably, hippocampal glycogen content increased while striatal levels decreased during the 30 days after rats were trained to find food in the place version, but not the response version, of the maze tasks. A long-term consequence of the durable changes in glycogen stores was seen in task-by-site differences in extracellular lactate responses activated by testing on a working memory task administered 30 days after initial training, the time when differences in glycogen content were most robust. These results suggest that astrocytic plasticity initiated by a single experience may augment future availability of energy reserves, perhaps priming brain areas to process learning of subsequent experiences more effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire J Scavuzzo
- Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E9, Canada.
| | - Lori A Newman
- Psychological Science Department, Vassar College, 124 Raymond Avenue, Box 713, Poughkeepsie, NY 12604, USA
| | - Paul E Gold
- Biology Department, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244, USA
| | - Donna L Korol
- Biology Department, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244, USA.
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Armstrong JL, Casey AB, Saraf TS, Mukherjee M, Booth RG, Canal CE. ( S)-5-(2'-Fluorophenyl)- N, N-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-2-amine, a Serotonin Receptor Modulator, Possesses Anticonvulsant, Prosocial, and Anxiolytic-like Properties in an Fmr1 Knockout Mouse Model of Fragile X Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2020; 3:509-523. [PMID: 32566916 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.9b00101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by intellectual disabilities and a plethora of neuropsychiatric symptoms. FXS is the leading monogenic cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which is defined clinically by repetitive and/or restrictive patterns of behavior and social communication deficits. Epilepsy and anxiety are also common in FXS and ASD. Serotonergic neurons directly innervate and modulate the activity of neurobiological circuits altered in both disorders, providing a rationale for investigating serotonin receptors (5-HTRs) as targets for FXS and ASD drug discovery. Previously we unveiled an orally active aminotetralin, (S)-5-(2'-fluorophenyl)-N,N-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-2-amine (FPT), that exhibits partial agonist activity at 5-HT1ARs, 5-HT2CRs, and 5-HT7Rs and that reduces repetitive behaviors and increases social approach behavior in wild-type mice. Here we report that in an Fmr1 knockout mouse model of FXS and ASD, FPT is prophylactic for audiogenic seizures. No FPT-treated mice displayed audiogenic seizures, compared to 73% of vehicle-treated mice. FPT also exhibits anxiolytic-like effects in several assays and increases social interactions in both Fmr1 knockout and wild-type mice. Furthermore, FPT increases c-Fos expression in the basolateral amygdala, which is a preclinical effect produced by anxiolytic medications. Receptor pharmacology assays show that FPT binds competitively and possesses rapid association and dissociation kinetics at 5-HT1ARs and 5-HT7Rs, yet has slow association and rapid dissociation kinetics at 5-HT2CRs. Finally, we reassessed and report FPT's affinity and function at 5-HT1ARs, 5-HT2CRs, and 5-HT7Rs. Collectively, these observations provide mounting support for further development of FPT as a pharmacotherapy for common neuropsychiatric symptoms in FXS and ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Armstrong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Mercer University Health Sciences Center, Mercer University, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, United States
| | - Austen B Casey
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02131, United States
| | - Tanishka S Saraf
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Mercer University Health Sciences Center, Mercer University, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, United States
| | - Munmun Mukherjee
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02131, United States
| | - Raymond G Booth
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02131, United States
| | - Clinton E Canal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Mercer University Health Sciences Center, Mercer University, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, United States
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Adcock M, Fankhauser M, Post J, Lutz K, Zizlsperger L, Luft AR, Guimarães V, Schättin A, de Bruin ED. Effects of an In-home Multicomponent Exergame Training on Physical Functions, Cognition, and Brain Volume of Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 6:321. [PMID: 32047751 PMCID: PMC6997483 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2019.00321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is associated with a decline in physical functions, cognition and brain structure. Considering that human life is based on an inseparable physical-cognitive interplay, combined physical-cognitive training through exergames is a promising approach to counteract age-related impairments. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of an in-home multicomponent exergame training on [i] physical and cognitive functions and [ii] brain volume of older adults compared to a usual care control group. Thirty-seven healthy and independently living older adults aged 65 years and older were randomly assigned to an intervention (exergame training) or a control (usual care) group. Over 16 weeks, the participants of the intervention group absolved three home-based exergame sessions per week (à 30–40 min) including Tai Chi-inspired exercises, dancing and step-based cognitive games. The control participants continued with their normal daily living. Pre- and post-measurements included assessments of physical (gait parameters, functional muscle strength, balance, aerobic endurance) and cognitive (processing speed, short-term attention span, working memory, inhibition, mental flexibility) functions. T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging was conducted to assess brain volume. Thirty-one participants (mean age = 73.9 ± 6.4 years, range = 65–90 years, 16 female) completed the study. Inhibition and working memory significantly improved post-intervention in favor of the intervention group [inhibition: F(1) = 2.537, p = 0.046, np2 = 0.11, working memory: F(1) = 5.872, p = 0.015, np2 = 0.02]. Two measures of short-term attentional span showed improvements after training in favor of the control group [F(1) = 4.309, p = 0.038, np2 = 0.03, F(1) = 8.504, p = 0.004, np2 = 0.04]. No significant training effects were evident for physical functions or brain volume. Both groups exhibited a significant decrease in gray matter volume of frontal areas and the hippocampus over time. The findings indicate a positive influence of exergame training on executive functioning. No improvements in physical functions or brain volume were evident in this study. Better adapted individualized training challenge and a longer training period are suggested. Further studies are needed that assess training-related structural brain plasticity and its effect on performance, daily life functioning and healthy aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Adcock
- Institute of Human Movement Sciences and Sport, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mélanie Fankhauser
- Institute of Human Movement Sciences and Sport, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer Post
- Institute of Human Movement Sciences and Sport, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kai Lutz
- Cereneo, Center for Neurology and Rehabilitation, Vitznau, Switzerland
| | | | - Andreas R Luft
- Cereneo, Center for Neurology and Rehabilitation, Vitznau, Switzerland.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Alexandra Schättin
- Institute of Human Movement Sciences and Sport, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Eling D de Bruin
- Institute of Human Movement Sciences and Sport, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Division of Physiotherapy, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Farokhi-Sisakht F, Farhoudi M, Sadigh-Eteghad S, Mahmoudi J, Mohaddes G. Cognitive Rehabilitation Improves Ischemic Stroke-Induced Cognitive Impairment: Role of Growth Factors. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2019; 28:104299. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2019.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
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Korol DL, Gardner RS, Tunur T, Gold PE. Involvement of lactate transport in two object recognition tasks that require either the hippocampus or striatum. Behav Neurosci 2019; 133:176-187. [PMID: 30907617 DOI: 10.1037/bne0000304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Growing evidence indicates that hippocampal lactate, released from astrocytes, is an important regulator of learning and memory processing. This study evaluated the selective involvement of hippocampal and striatal lactate in two object recognition tasks. The tasks tested recognition memory after a change in location of two target objects (double object location; dOL) or after replacement of familiar targets with two new objects set in the original locations (double object replacement; dOR). Rats received three study sessions across which exploration times decreased. The recognition index was the change in exploration time of both objects on a test trial from the exploration times on the final study trial. We first verified a double dissociation between hippocampus and striatum across these tasks. The sodium channel blocker, lidocaine, was infused into one of the two brain regions after the study sessions and before the test trial. To test the role of neuronal lactate in recognition memory, an inhibitor of the neuronal lactate transporter, α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamate (4-CIN), was similarly infused. For both drugs, infusions into the hippocampus but not the striatum impaired recognition in the dOL, whereas infusions into the striatum but not hippocampus impaired recognition in the dOR. The findings obtained with 4-CIN demonstrate for the first time the importance of neuronal lactate uptake in the hippocampus and the striatum for object recognition memory processing. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
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Hippocampal gene expression patterns linked to late-life physical activity oppose age and AD-related transcriptional decline. Neurobiol Aging 2019; 78:142-154. [PMID: 30927700 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2019.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Exercise has emerged as a powerful variable that can improve cognitive function and delay age-associated cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease (AD); however, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. To determine if protective mechanisms may occur at the transcriptional level, we used microarrays to investigate the relationship between physical activity levels and gene expression patterns in the cognitively intact aged human hippocampus. In parallel, hippocampal gene expression patterns associated with aging and AD were assessed using publicly available microarray data profiling hippocampus from young (20-59 years), cognitively intact aging (73-95 years) and age-matched AD cases. To identify "anti-aging/AD" transcription patterns associated with physical activity, probesets significantly associated with both physical activity and aging/AD were identified and their directions of expression change in each condition were compared. Remarkably, of the 2210 probesets significant in both data sets, nearly 95% showed opposite transcription patterns with physical activity compared with aging/AD. The majority (>70%) of these anti-aging/AD genes showed increased expression with physical activity and decreased expression in aging/AD. Enrichment analysis of the anti-aging/AD genes showing increased expression in association with physical activity revealed strong overrepresentation of mitochondrial energy production and synaptic function, along with axonal function and myelin integrity. Synaptic genes were notably enriched for synaptic vesicle priming, release and recycling, glutamate and GABA signaling, and spine plasticity. Anti-aging/AD genes showing decreased expression in association with physical activity were enriched for transcription-related function (notably negative regulation of transcription). These data reveal that physical activity is associated with a more youthful profile in the hippocampus across multiple biological processes, providing a potential molecular foundation for how physical activity can delay age- and AD-related decline of hippocampal function.
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10
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Hall JM, Gomez-Pinilla F, Savage LM. Nerve Growth Factor Is Responsible for Exercise-Induced Recovery of Septohippocampal Cholinergic Structure and Function. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:773. [PMID: 30443202 PMCID: PMC6222249 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Exercise has been shown to improve or rescue cognitive functioning in both humans and rodents, and the augmented actions of neurotrophins within the hippocampus and associated regions play a significant role in the improved neural plasticity. The septohippocampal circuit is modified by exercise. Beyond an enhancement of spatial working memory and a rescue of hippocampal activity-dependent acetylcholine (ACh) efflux, the re-emergence of the cholinergic/nestin neuronal phenotype within the medial septum/diagonal band (MS/dB) is observed following exercise (Hall and Savage, 2016). To determine which neurotrophin, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) or nerve growth factor (NGF), is critical for exercise-induced cholinergic improvements, control and amnestic rats had either NGF or BDNF sequestered by TrkA-IgG or TrkB-IgG coated microbeads placed within the dorsal hippocampus. Hippocampal ACh release within the hippocampus during spontaneous alternation was measured and MS/dB cholinergic neuronal phenotypes were assessed. Sequestering NGF, but not BDNF, abolished the exercise-induced recovery of spatial working memory and ACh efflux. Furthermore, the re-emergence of the cholinergic/nestin neuronal phenotype within the MS/dB following exercise was also selectively dependent on the actions of NGF. Thus, exercise-induced enhancement of NGF within the septohippocampal pathway represents a key avenue for aiding failing septo-hippocampal functioning and therefore has significant potential for the recovery of memory and cognition in several neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph M Hall
- Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychology, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, United States
| | - Fernando Gomez-Pinilla
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Lisa M Savage
- Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychology, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, United States
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11
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Kundu P, Korol DL, Bandara S, Monaikul S, Ondera CE, Helferich WG, Khan IA, Doerge DR, Schantz SL. Licorice root components mimic estrogens in an object location task but not an object recognition task. Horm Behav 2018; 103:97-106. [PMID: 29920269 PMCID: PMC6086590 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2018.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 05/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the efficacy of components of licorice root to alter performance on two different recognition tasks, a hippocampus-sensitive metric change in object location (MCOL) task and a striatum-sensitive double object recognition (DOR) task. Isoliquiritigenin (ISL), licorice root extract (LRE), and whole licorice root powder (LRP) were assessed. Young adult female rats were ovariectomized (OVX) and exposed to ISL, LRE or LRP at 0.075%, 0.5% or 5% respectively in the diet. An estradiol group was included as a positive control based on our prior findings. Rats were allowed to explore two objects for three 5-min study trials (separated by 3-min intervals) before a fourth 5-min test trial where the objects were moved closer together (MCOL task) or replaced with two new objects (DOR task). Rats typically habituate to the objects across the three study trials. An increase in object exploration time in the test trial suggests the rat detected the change. Estradiol improved MCOL performance and impaired DOR performance, similar to previously shown effects of estradiol and other estrogens, which tend to improve learning and memory on hippocampus-sensitive tasks and impair striatum-sensitive cognition. LRP had no effect on recognition while exposure to ISL and LRE improved MCOL performance. Exposure to ISL, LRE and LRP failed to attenuate DOR, contrary to effects of estradiol shown here and to previous reports in young-adult OVX rats. These findings suggest components of licorice root may prove to be effective therapies targeting memory enhancement without unintended deleterious cognitive effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Payel Kundu
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Neuroscience Program, 405 N Mathews Ave, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
| | - Donna L Korol
- Syracuse University, Department of Biology, 107 College Place, Syracuse, NY 13244, USA.
| | - Suren Bandara
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Neuroscience Program, 405 N Mathews Ave, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Supida Monaikul
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Neuroscience Program, 405 N Mathews Ave, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Caitlin E Ondera
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, 2001 S Lincoln Ave, Urbana, IL 61802, USA.
| | - William G Helferich
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, 905 S. Goodwin, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
| | - Ikhlas A Khan
- The University of Mississippi, 1558 University Circle, P.O. Box 1848, University, MS 38677, USA.
| | - Daniel R Doerge
- National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food & Drug Administration, 3900 NCTR Road, Jefferson, AR 72079, USA.
| | - Susan L Schantz
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Neuroscience Program, 405 N Mathews Ave, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, 2001 S Lincoln Ave, Urbana, IL 61802, USA; University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Beckman Institute, 405 N Mathews Ave, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
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12
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Walsh JJ, Tschakovsky ME. Exercise and circulating BDNF: Mechanisms of release and implications for the design of exercise interventions. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2018; 43:1095-1104. [PMID: 29775542 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2018-0192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Engagement in regular bouts of exercise confers numerous positive effects on brain health across the lifespan. Acute bouts of exercise transiently improve cognitive function, while long-term exercise training stimulates brain plasticity, improves brain function, and helps to stave off neurological disease. The action of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a candidate mechanism underlying these exercise-induced benefits and is the subject of considerable attention in the exercise-brain health literature. It is well established that acute exercise increases circulating levels of BDNF and numerous studies have sought to characterize this response for the purpose of improving brain health. Despite the interest in BDNF responses to exercise, little focus has been given to understanding the sources and mechanisms that underlie this response for the purpose of deliberately increasing circulating levels of BDNF. Here we review evidence to support that exploiting these mechanisms of BDNF release can help to optimize brain plasticity outcomes via exercise interventions, which could be especially relevant in the context of multimodal training (i.e., exercise and cognitive stimulation). Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to review the candidate sources of BDNF during exercise and the mechanisms of release. As well, we discuss strategies for maximizing BDNF responses to exercise, and propose novel research directions for advancing our understanding of these mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy J Walsh
- a Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1, Canada
| | - Michael E Tschakovsky
- b School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
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13
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Improvement of cognitive functions in response to a regular Nordic walking training in elderly women – A change dependent on the training experience. Exp Gerontol 2018; 104:105-112. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2018.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Revised: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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14
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Hou L, Chen W, Liu X, Qiao D, Zhou FM. Exercise-Induced Neuroprotection of the Nigrostriatal Dopamine System in Parkinson's Disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2017; 9:358. [PMID: 29163139 PMCID: PMC5675869 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2017.00358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological studies indicate that physical activity and exercise may reduce the risk of developing Parkinson's disease (PD), and clinical observations suggest that physical exercise can reduce the motor symptoms in PD patients. In experimental animals, a profound observation is that exercise of appropriate timing, duration, and intensity can reduce toxin-induced lesion of the nigrostriatal dopamine (DA) system in animal PD models, although negative results have also been reported, potentially due to inappropriate timing and intensity of the exercise regimen. Exercise may also minimize DA denervation-induced medium spiny neuron (MSN) dendritic atrophy and other abnormalities such as enlarged corticostriatal synapse and abnormal MSN excitability and spiking activity. Taken together, epidemiological studies, clinical observations, and animal research indicate that appropriately dosed physical activity and exercise may not only reduce the risk of developing PD in vulnerable populations but also benefit PD patients by potentially protecting the residual DA neurons or directly restoring the dysfunctional cortico-basal ganglia motor control circuit, and these benefits may be mediated by exercise-triggered production of endogenous neuroprotective molecules such as neurotrophic factors. Thus, exercise is a universally available, side effect-free medicine that should be prescribed to vulnerable populations as a preventive measure and to PD patients as a component of treatment. Future research needs to establish standardized exercise protocols that can reliably induce DA neuron protection, enabling the delineation of the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms that in turn can maximize exercise-induced neuroprotection and neurorestoration in animal PD models and eventually in PD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Hou
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, College of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, College of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China.,Department of Exercise and Rehabilitation, Physical Education College, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xiaoli Liu
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, College of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Decai Qiao
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, College of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Fu-Ming Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Memphis, TN, United States
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15
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Gmiat A, Micielska K, Kozłowska M, Flis D, Smaruj M, Kujach S, Jaworska J, Lipińska P, Ziemann E. The impact of a single bout of high intensity circuit training on myokines' concentrations and cognitive functions in women of different age. Physiol Behav 2017; 179:290-297. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2017.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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16
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Brooks SJ, Funk SG, Young SY, Schiöth HB. The Role of Working Memory for Cognitive Control in Anorexia Nervosa versus Substance Use Disorder. Front Psychol 2017; 8:1651. [PMID: 29018381 PMCID: PMC5615794 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.01651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Prefrontal cortex executive functions, such as working memory (WM) interact with limbic processes to foster impulse control. Such an interaction is referred to in a growing body of publications by terms such as cognitive control, cognitive inhibition, affect regulation, self-regulation, top-down control, and cognitive–emotion interaction. The rising trend of research into cognitive control of impulsivity, using various related terms reflects the importance of research into impulse control, as failure to employ cognitions optimally may eventually result in mental disorder. Against this background, we take a novel approach using an impulse control spectrum model – where anorexia nervosa (AN) and substance use disorder (SUD) are at opposite extremes – to examine the role of WM for cognitive control. With this aim, we first summarize WM processes in the healthy brain in order to frame a systematic review of the neuropsychological, neural and genetic findings of AN and SUD. In our systematic review of WM/cognitive control, we found n = 15 studies of AN with a total of n = 582 AN and n = 365 HC participants; and n = 93 studies of SUD with n = 9106 SUD and n = 3028 HC participants. In particular, we consider how WM load/capacity may support the neural process of excessive epistemic foraging (cognitive sampling of the environment to test predictions about the world) in AN that reduces distraction from salient stimuli. We also consider the link between WM and cognitive control in people with SUD who are prone to ‘jumping to conclusions’ and reduced epistemic foraging. Finally, in light of our review, we consider WM training as a novel research tool and an adjunct to enhance treatment that improves cognitive control of impulsivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J Brooks
- Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala UniversityUppsala, Sweden.,Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape TownCape Town, South Africa
| | - Sabina G Funk
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape TownCape Town, South Africa
| | - Susanne Y Young
- Department of Psychiatry, Stellenbosch UniversityBellville, South Africa
| | - Helgi B Schiöth
- Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala UniversityUppsala, Sweden
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17
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Cahn BR, Goodman MS, Peterson CT, Maturi R, Mills PJ. Yoga, Meditation and Mind-Body Health: Increased BDNF, Cortisol Awakening Response, and Altered Inflammatory Marker Expression after a 3-Month Yoga and Meditation Retreat. Front Hum Neurosci 2017; 11:315. [PMID: 28694775 PMCID: PMC5483482 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2017.00315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Thirty-eight individuals (mean age: 34.8 years old) participating in a 3-month yoga and meditation retreat were assessed before and after the intervention for psychometric measures, brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), circadian salivary cortisol levels, and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Participation in the retreat was found to be associated with decreases in self-reported anxiety and depression as well as increases in mindfulness. As hypothesized, increases in the plasma levels of BDNF and increases in the magnitude of the cortisol awakening response (CAR) were also observed. The normalized change in BDNF levels was inversely correlated with BSI-18 anxiety scores at both the pre-retreat (r = 0.40, p < 0.05) and post-retreat (r = 0.52, p < 0.005) such that those with greater anxiety scores tended to exhibit smaller pre- to post-retreat increases in plasma BDNF levels. In line with a hypothesized decrease in inflammatory processes resulting from the yoga and meditation practices, we found that the plasma level of the anti-inflammatory cytokine Interleukin-10 was increased and the pro-inflammatory cytokine Interleukin-12 was reduced after the retreat. Contrary to our initial hypotheses, plasma levels of other pro-inflammatory cytokines, including Interferon Gamma (IFN-γ), Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF-α), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and Interleukin-8 (IL-8) were increased after the retreat. Given evidence from previous studies of the positive effects of meditative practices on mental fitness, autonomic homeostasis and inflammatory status, we hypothesize that these findings are related to the meditative practices throughout the retreat; however, some of the observed changes may also be related to other aspects of the retreat such as physical exercise-related components of the yoga practice and diet. We hypothesize that the patterns of change observed here reflect mind-body integration and well-being. The increased BDNF levels observed is a potential mediator between meditative practices and brain health, the increased CAR is likely a reflection of increased dynamic physiological arousal, and the relationship of the dual enhancement of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine changes to healthy immunologic functioning is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. Rael Cahn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles, CA, United States
- Brain and Creativity Institute, University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Matthew S. Goodman
- California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International UniversitySan Diego, CA, United States
| | - Christine T. Peterson
- Center of Excellence for Research and Training in Integrative Health, Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, San DiegoLa Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Raj Maturi
- Midwest Eye InstituteIndianapolis, IN, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Paul J. Mills
- Center of Excellence for Research and Training in Integrative Health, Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, San DiegoLa Jolla, CA, United States
- Chopra FoundationCarlsbad, CA, United States
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18
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Abstract
More and more people are living into the 90s or becoming centenarians. But, the gift of increased ‘age span’ seldom equates with an improved ‘health-span’. Governments across the world are expressing concern about the epidemic of chronic disease, and have responded by initiating policies that make prevention, reduction and treatment of chronic disease, a public health priority. But understanding, how to age long and well, with the avoidance of chronic disease and later life complex disease morbidity is challenging. While inherited genes have an undoubted role to play in the chance of maintaining good health or conversely a predilection to developing disease and chronic ill health, there is increasing evidence that behavioural and environmental life-style choices may contribute up to 50% of the variability of human lifespan. Physical exercise is readily available to everyone, and is a simple cheap and effective form of life-style intervention. Exercise appears to help maintain good health and to reduce the risk of developing chronic disease and ill health. Evidence suggests that physical activity improves well-being across many health domains through out life, continues to offer important health benefits in older age groups and tracks with a ‘healthy ageing’ profile. Although many of the molecular pathways remain to be fully identified, here we discuss how physical activity and exercise is understood to produce changes in the human epigenome, which have the potential to enhance cognitive and psychological health, improve muscular fitness, and lead to better ageing with improved quality of life in older age.
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19
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Snyder JS, Cahill SP, Frankland PW. Running promotes spatial bias independently of adult neurogenesis. Hippocampus 2017; 27:871-882. [DOI: 10.1002/hipo.22737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Revised: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jason S. Snyder
- Department of Psychology & Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health; University of British Columbia; Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Shaina P. Cahill
- Department of Psychology & Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health; University of British Columbia; Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Paul W. Frankland
- Hospital for Sick Children; Program in Neurosciences & Mental Health, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning; Toronto Ontario Canada
- Department of Psychology; University of Toronto; Ontario Canada
- Department of Physiology; University of Toronto; Ontario Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences; University of Toronto; Ontario Canada
- Child & Brain Development Program; Canadian Institute for Advanced Research; Toronto Ontario Canada
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20
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Newman LA, Scavuzzo CJ, Gold PE, Korol DL. Training-induced elevations in extracellular lactate in hippocampus and striatum: Dissociations by cognitive strategy and type of reward. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2017; 137:142-153. [PMID: 27919829 PMCID: PMC5215615 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2016.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Revised: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that astrocytes convert glucose to lactate, which is released from the astrocytes and supports learning and memory. This report takes a multiple memory perspective to test the role of astrocytes in cognition using real-time lactate measurements during learning and memory. Extracellular lactate levels in the hippocampus or striatum were determined with lactate biosensors while rats were learning place (hippocampus-sensitive) or response (striatum-sensitive) versions of T-mazes. In the first experiment, rats were trained on the place and response tasks to locate a food reward. Extracellular lactate levels in the hippocampus increased beyond those of feeding controls during place training but not during response training. However, striatal lactate levels did not increase beyond those of controls when rats were trained on either the place or the response version of the maze. Because food ingestion itself increased blood glucose and brain lactate levels, the contribution of feeding may have confounded the brain lactate measures. Therefore, we conducted a second similar experiment using water as the reward. A very different pattern of lactate responses to training emerged when water was used as the task reward. First, provision of water itself did not result in large increases in either brain or blood lactate levels. Moreover, extracellular lactate levels increased in the striatum during response but not place learning, whereas extracellular lactate levels in the hippocampus did not differ across tasks. The findings from the two experiments suggest that the relative engagement of the hippocampus and striatum dissociates not only by task but also by reward type. The divergent lactate responses of the hippocampus and striatum in place and response tasks under different reward conditions may reflect ethological constraints tied to foraging for food and water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori A Newman
- Department of Biology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13224, USA
| | - Claire J Scavuzzo
- Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Paul E Gold
- Department of Biology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13224, USA
| | - Donna L Korol
- Department of Biology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13224, USA.
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21
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Physical Activity Is Associated with Reduced Implicit Learning but Enhanced Relational Memory and Executive Functioning in Young Adults. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0162100. [PMID: 27584059 PMCID: PMC5008769 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0162100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that physical activity improves explicit memory and executive cognitive functioning at the extreme ends of the lifespan (i.e., in older adults and children). However, it is unknown whether these associations hold for younger adults who are considered to be in their cognitive prime, or for implicit cognitive functions that do not depend on motor sequencing. Here we report the results of a study in which we examine the relationship between objectively measured physical activity and (1) explicit relational memory, (2) executive control, and (3) implicit probabilistic sequence learning in a sample of healthy, college-aged adults. The main finding was that physical activity was positively associated with explicit relational memory and executive control (replicating previous research), but negatively associated with implicit learning, particularly in females. These results raise the intriguing possibility that physical activity upregulates some cognitive processes, but downregulates others. Possible implications of this pattern of results for physical health and health habits are discussed.
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22
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Kandola A, Hendrikse J, Lucassen PJ, Yücel M. Aerobic Exercise as a Tool to Improve Hippocampal Plasticity and Function in Humans: Practical Implications for Mental Health Treatment. Front Hum Neurosci 2016; 10:373. [PMID: 27524962 PMCID: PMC4965462 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2016.00373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Aerobic exercise (AE) has been widely praised for its potential benefits to cognition and overall brain and mental health. In particular, AE has a potent impact on promoting the function of the hippocampus and stimulating neuroplasticity. As the evidence-base rapidly builds, and given most of the supporting work can be readily translated from animal models to humans, the potential for AE to be applied as a therapeutic or adjunctive intervention for a range of human conditions appears ever more promising. Notably, many psychiatric and neurological disorders have been associated with hippocampal dysfunction, which may underlie the expression of certain symptoms common to these disorders, including (aspects of) cognitive dysfunction. Augmenting existing treatment approaches using AE based interventions may promote hippocampal function and alleviate cognitive deficits in various psychiatric disorders that currently remain untreated. Incorporating non-pharmacological interventions into clinical treatment may also have a number of other benefits to patient well being, such as limiting the risk of adverse side effects. This review incorporates both animal and human literature to comprehensively detail how AE is associated with cognitive enhancements and stimulates a cascade of neuroplastic mechanisms that support improvements in hippocampal functioning. Using the examples of schizophrenia and major depressive disorder, the utility and implementation of an AE intervention to the clinical domain will be proposed, aimed to reduce cognitive deficits in these, and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Kandola
- Brain and Mental Health Lab, School of Psychological Sciences and Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, Monash University, MelbourneVIC, Australia; Amsterdam Brain and Cognition, University of AmsterdamAmsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Joshua Hendrikse
- Brain and Mental Health Lab, School of Psychological Sciences and Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, Monash University, Melbourne VIC, Australia
| | - Paul J Lucassen
- Centre for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute of Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Murat Yücel
- Brain and Mental Health Lab, School of Psychological Sciences and Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, Monash University, Melbourne VIC, Australia
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23
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Taubert M, Villringer A, Lehmann N. Endurance Exercise as an "Endogenous" Neuro-enhancement Strategy to Facilitate Motor Learning. Front Hum Neurosci 2015; 9:692. [PMID: 26834602 PMCID: PMC4714627 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2015.00692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endurance exercise improves cardiovascular and musculoskeletal function and may also increase the information processing capacities of the brain. Animal and human research from the past decade demonstrated widespread exercise effects on brain structure and function at the systems-, cellular-, and molecular level of brain organization. These neurobiological mechanisms may explain the well-established positive influence of exercise on performance in various behavioral domains but also its contribution to improved skill learning and neuroplasticity. With respect to the latter, only few empirical and theoretical studies are available to date. The aim of this review is (i) to summarize the existing neurobiological and behavioral evidence arguing for endurance exercise-induced improvements in motor learning and (ii) to develop hypotheses about the mechanistic link between exercise and improved learning. We identify major knowledge gaps that need to be addressed by future research projects to advance our understanding of how exercise should be organized to optimize motor learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Taubert
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig Germany
| | - Arno Villringer
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, LeipzigGermany; Clinic for Cognitive Neurology, University Hospital Leipzig, LeipzigGermany
| | - Nico Lehmann
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig Germany
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24
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Bolijn S, Lucassen PJ. How the Body Talks to the Brain; Peripheral Mediators of Physical Activity-Induced Proliferation in the Adult Hippocampus. Brain Plast 2015; 1:5-27. [PMID: 29765833 PMCID: PMC5939189 DOI: 10.3233/bpl-150020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the hippocampal dentate gyrus, stem cells maintain the capacity to produce new neurons into adulthood. These adult-generated neurons become fully functional and are incorporated into the existing hippocampal circuit. The process of adult neurogenesis contributes to hippocampal functioning and is influenced by various environmental, hormonal and disease-related factors. One of the most potent stimuli of neurogenesis is physical activity (PA). While the bodily and peripheral changes of PA are well known, e.g. in relation to diet or cardiovascular conditions, little is known about which of these also exert central effects on the brain. Here, we discuss PA-induced changes in peripheral mediators that can modify hippocampal proliferation, and address changes with age, sex or PA duration/intensity. Of the many peripheral factors known to be triggered by PA, serotonin, FGF-2, IGF-1, VEGF, β-endorphin and adiponectin are best known for their stimulatory effects on hippocampal proliferation. Interestingly, while age negatively affects hippocampal proliferation per se, also the PA-induced response to most of these peripheral mediators is reduced and particularly the response to IGF-1 and NPY strongly declines with age. Sex differences per se have generally little effects on PA-induced neurogenesis. Compared to short term exercise, long term PA may negatively affect proliferation, due to a parallel decline in FGF-2 and the β-endorphin receptor, and an activation of the stress system particularly during conditions of prolonged exercise but this depends on other variables as well and remains a matter of discussion. Taken together, of many possible mediators, serotonin, FGF-2, IGF-1, VEGF, β-endorphin and adiponectin are the ones that most strongly contribute to the central effects of PA on the hippocampus. For a subgroup of these factors, brain sensitivity and responsivity is reduced with age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Bolijn
- Centre for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute of Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul J Lucassen
- Centre for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute of Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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25
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Panizzutti B, Gubert C, Schuh AL, Ferrari P, Bristot G, Fries GR, Massuda R, Walz J, Rocha NP, Berk M, Teixeira AL, Gama CS. Increased serum levels of eotaxin/CCL11 in late-stage patients with bipolar disorder: An accelerated aging biomarker? J Affect Disord 2015; 182:64-9. [PMID: 25973785 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2014.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2014] [Accepted: 12/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bipolar disorder (BD) is commonly comorbid with many medical disorders including atopy, and appears characterized by progressive social, neurobiological, and functional impairment associated with increasing number of episodes and illness duration. Early and late stages of BD may present different biological features and may therefore require different treatment strategies. Consequently, the aim of this study was to evaluate serum levels of eotaxin/CCL11, eotaxin-2/CCL24, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, TNF-α, IFNγ, BDNF, TBARS, carbonyl, and GPx in a sample of euthymic patients with BD at early and late stages compared to controls. METHODS Early-stage BD patients, 12 late-stage patients, and 25 controls matched for sex and age were selected. 10mL of peripheral blood was drawn from all subjects by venipuncture. Serum levels of BDNF, TBARS, carbonyl content, glutathione-peroxidase activity (GPx), cytokines (IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, TNF-α and IFNγ), and chemokines (eotaxin/CCL11 and eotaxin-2/CCL24) were measured. RESULTS There were no demographic differences between patients and controls. No significant differences were found for any of the biomarkers, except chemokine eotaxin/CCL11, whose serum levels were higher in late-stage patients with BD when compared to controls (p=0.022; Mann-Whitney U test). LIMITATIONS Small number of subjects and use of medication may have influenced in our results. CONCLUSION The present study suggests a link between biomarkers of atopy and eosinophil function and bipolar disorder. These findings are also in line with progressive biological changes partially mediated by inflammatory imbalance, a process referred to as neuroprogression.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Panizzutti
- Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry, INCT for Translational Medicine, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina: Psiquiatria, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
| | - C Gubert
- Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry, INCT for Translational Medicine, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, UFRGS, Brazil
| | - A L Schuh
- Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry, INCT for Translational Medicine, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - P Ferrari
- Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry, INCT for Translational Medicine, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina: Psiquiatria, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - G Bristot
- Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry, INCT for Translational Medicine, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - G R Fries
- Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry, INCT for Translational Medicine, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, UFRGS, Brazil
| | - R Massuda
- Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry, INCT for Translational Medicine, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina: Psiquiatria, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Brazil
| | - J Walz
- Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry, INCT for Translational Medicine, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina: Psiquiatria, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Centro Universitário UNILASALLE, Canoas, Brazil
| | - N P Rocha
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Investigação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - M Berk
- IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia; Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - A L Teixeira
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Investigação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - C S Gama
- Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry, INCT for Translational Medicine, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina: Psiquiatria, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Martinez-Coria H, Yeung ST, Ager RR, Rodriguez-Ortiz CJ, Baglietto-Vargas D, LaFerla FM. Repeated cognitive stimulation alleviates memory impairments in an Alzheimer's disease mouse model. Brain Res Bull 2015; 117:10-5. [PMID: 26162480 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2015.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Revised: 06/29/2015] [Accepted: 07/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disease associated with progressive memory and cognitive decline. Previous studies have identified the benefits of cognitive enrichment on reducing disease pathology. Additionally, epidemiological and clinical data suggest that repeated exercise, and cognitive and social enrichment, can improve and/or delay the cognitive deficiencies associated with aging and neurodegenerative diseases. In the present study, 3xTg-AD mice were exposed to a rigorous training routine beginning at 3 months of age, which consisted of repeated training in the Morris water maze spatial recognition task every 3 months, ending at 18 months of age. At the conclusion of the final Morris water maze training session, animals subsequently underwent testing in another hippocampus-dependent spatial task, the Barnes maze task, and on the more cortical-dependent novel object recognition memory task. Our data show that periodic cognitive enrichment throughout aging, via multiple learning episodes in the Morris water maze task, can improve the memory performance of aged 3xTg-AD mice in a separate spatial recognition task, and in a preference memory task, when compared to naïve aged matched 3xTg-AD mice. Furthermore, we observed that the cognitive enrichment properties of Morris water maze exposer, was detectable in repeatedly trained animals as early as 6 months of age. These findings suggest early repeated cognitive enrichment can mitigate the diverse cognitive deficits observed in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilda Martinez-Coria
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico
| | - Stephen T Yeung
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Rahasson R Ager
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | | | - David Baglietto-Vargas
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Frank M LaFerla
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
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27
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Nishijima T, Kita I. Deleterious effects of physical inactivity on the hippocampus: New insight into the increasing prevalence of stress-related depression. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.7600/jpfsm.4.253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Nishijima
- Laboratory of Behavioral Physiology, Graduate School of Human Health Sciences, Tokyo Metropolitan University
| | - Ichiro Kita
- Laboratory of Behavioral Physiology, Graduate School of Human Health Sciences, Tokyo Metropolitan University
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28
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Szuhany KL, Bugatti M, Otto MW. A meta-analytic review of the effects of exercise on brain-derived neurotrophic factor. J Psychiatr Res 2015; 60:56-64. [PMID: 25455510 PMCID: PMC4314337 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2014.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 465] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2014] [Revised: 09/29/2014] [Accepted: 10/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Consistent evidence indicates that exercise improves cognition and mood, with preliminary evidence suggesting that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may mediate these effects. The aim of the current meta-analysis was to provide an estimate of the strength of the association between exercise and increased BDNF levels in humans across multiple exercise paradigms. We conducted a meta-analysis of 29 studies (N = 1111 participants) examining the effect of exercise on BDNF levels in three exercise paradigms: (1) a single session of exercise, (2) a session of exercise following a program of regular exercise, and (3) resting BDNF levels following a program of regular exercise. Moderators of this effect were also examined. Results demonstrated a moderate effect size for increases in BDNF following a single session of exercise (Hedges' g = 0.46, p < 0.001). Further, regular exercise intensified the effect of a session of exercise on BDNF levels (Hedges' g = 0.59, p = 0.02). Finally, results indicated a small effect of regular exercise on resting BDNF levels (Hedges' g = 0.27, p = 0.005). When analyzing results across paradigms, sex significantly moderated the effect of exercise on BDNF levels, such that studies with more women showed less BDNF change resulting from exercise. Effect size analysis supports the role of exercise as a strategy for enhancing BDNF activity in humans, but indicates that the magnitude of these effects may be lower in females relative to males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin L. Szuhany
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University 648 Beacon St., 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Matteo Bugatti
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University 648 Beacon St., 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Michael W. Otto
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University 648 Beacon St., 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02215
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29
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Abstract
The slow, progressive accumulation of pathology characteristic of Alzheimer's disease is the principal determinant of cognitive decline leading to dementia. Risk-reduction strategies during midlife focus on raising the clinical threshold for the appearance of cognitive symptoms and on reducing the extent of Alzheimer pathology. Best available evidence suggests an approach based on three, conceptually distinct strategies. (1) Raise the threshold for cognitive symptoms by improving brain health. To achieve this goal, the tactic is to reduce cerebrovascular risks mediated by hypertension, diabetes, cigarette smoking, and hyperlipidemia. (2) Raise the threshold for cognitive symptoms by enhancing cognitive reserve. Here, tactics focus on mental stimulation associated with occupation, leisure activities and social engagement. (3) Reduce the burden of Alzheimer pathology. The most promising tactic toward this end is regular aerobic exercise. Tactics in support of strategies to reduce cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer pathology are not yet substantiated by robust, consistent clinical trial evidence. There is pressing need for well-designed pragmatic trials to provide stronger evidence on preventive strategies for late-life cognitive decline and dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- V W Henderson
- Departments of Health Research and Policy (Epidemiology) and of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University , Stanford, California , USA
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30
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Chiapponi C, Piras F, Fagioli S, Girardi P, Caltagirone C, Spalletta G. Hippocampus age-related microstructural changes in schizophrenia: a case-control mean diffusivity study. Schizophr Res 2014; 157:214-7. [PMID: 24924408 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2014.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2013] [Revised: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Macrostructural-volumetric abnormalities of the hippocampus have been described in schizophrenia. Here, we characterized age-related changes of hippocampal mean diffusivity as an index of microstructural damage by carrying out a neuroimaging study in 85 patients with a DSM-IV-TR diagnosis of schizophrenia and 85 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. We performed analyses of covariance, with diagnosis as fixed factor, mean diffusivity as dependent variable and age as covariate. Patients showed an early increase in mean diffusivity in the right and left hippocampus that increased with age. Thus, microstructural hippocampal changes associated with schizophrenia cannot be confined to a specific time window.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Chiapponi
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, Via Ardeatina 306, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Piras
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, Via Ardeatina 306, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Sabrina Fagioli
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, Via Ardeatina 306, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Girardi
- NESMOS Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Caltagirone
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, Via Ardeatina 306, 00179 Rome, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Spalletta
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, Via Ardeatina 306, 00179 Rome, Italy.
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31
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Gold PE, Korol DL. Forgetfulness during aging: an integrated biology. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2014; 112:130-8. [PMID: 24674745 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2014.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Revised: 03/10/2014] [Accepted: 03/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Age-related impairments in memory are often attributed to failures, at either systems or molecular levels, of memory storage processes. A major characteristic of changes in memory with increasing age is the advent of forgetfulness in old vs. young animals. This review examines the contribution of a dysfunction of the mechanisms responsible for modulating the maintenance of memory in aged rats. A memory-modulating system that includes epinephrine, acting through release of glucose from liver glycogen stores, potently enhances memory in young rats. In old rats, epinephrine loses its ability to release glucose and loses its efficacy in enhancing memory. Brain measures of extracellular levels of glucose in the hippocampus during memory testing show decreases in glucose in both young and old rats, but the decreases are markedly greater in extent and duration in old rats. Importantly, the old rats do not have the ability to increase blood glucose levels in response to arousal-related epinephrine release, which is retained and even increased in aged rats. Glucose appears to be able to reverse fully the increased rate of forgetting seen in old rats. This set of findings suggests that physiological mechanisms outside of the brain, i.e. changes in neuroendocrine functions, may contribute substantially to the onset of rapid forgetting in aged animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul E Gold
- Department of Biology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244, United States.
| | - Donna L Korol
- Department of Biology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244, United States
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32
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Cai L, Chan JSY, Yan JH, Peng K. Brain plasticity and motor practice in cognitive aging. Front Aging Neurosci 2014; 6:31. [PMID: 24653695 PMCID: PMC3947993 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2014.00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2013] [Accepted: 02/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
For more than two decades, there have been extensive studies of experience-based neural plasticity exploring effective applications of brain plasticity for cognitive and motor development. Research suggests that human brains continuously undergo structural reorganization and functional changes in response to stimulations or training. From a developmental point of view, the assumption of lifespan brain plasticity has been extended to older adults in terms of the benefits of cognitive training and physical therapy. To summarize recent developments, first, we introduce the concept of neural plasticity from a developmental perspective. Secondly, we note that motor learning often refers to deliberate practice and the resulting performance enhancement and adaptability. We discuss the close interplay between neural plasticity, motor learning and cognitive aging. Thirdly, we review research on motor skill acquisition in older adults with, and without, impairments relative to aging-related cognitive decline. Finally, to enhance future research and application, we highlight the implications of neural plasticity in skills learning and cognitive rehabilitation for the aging population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuyang Cai
- Department of Psychology, Tsinghua University Beijing, China
| | - John S Y Chan
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong, China
| | - Jin H Yan
- Department of Psychology, Tsinghua University Beijing, China ; Institute of Affective and Social Neuroscience, Shenzhen University Shenzhen, China
| | - Kaiping Peng
- Department of Psychology, Tsinghua University Beijing, China
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33
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Hall JM, Vetreno RP, Savage LM. Differential cortical neurotrophin and cytogenetic adaptation after voluntary exercise in normal and amnestic rats. Neuroscience 2014; 258:131-46. [PMID: 24215977 PMCID: PMC3947177 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2013.10.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2013] [Revised: 10/30/2013] [Accepted: 10/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Voluntary exercise (VEx) has profound effects on neural and behavioral plasticity, including recovery of CNS trauma and disease. However, the unique regional cortical adaption to VEx has not been elucidated. In a series of experiments, we first examined whether VEx would restore and retain neurotrophin levels in several cortical regions (frontal cortex [FC], retrosplenial cortex [RSC], occipital cortex [OC]) in an animal model (pyrithiamine-induced thiamine deficiency [PTD]) of the amnestic disorder Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. In addition, we assessed the time-dependent effect of VEx to rescue performance on a spontaneous alternation task. Following 2-weeks of VEx or stationary housing conditions (Stat), rats were behaviorally tested and brains were harvested either the day after VEx (24-h) or after an additional 2-week period (2-wk). In both control pair-fed (PF) rats and PTD rats, all neurotrophin levels (brain-derived neurotrophic factor [BDNF], nerve growth factor [NGF], and vascular endothelial growth factor) increased at the 24-h period after VEx in the FC and RSC, but not OC. Two-weeks following VEx, BDNF remained elevated in both FC and RSC, whereas NGF remained elevated in only the FC. Interestingly, VEx only recovered cognitive performance in amnestic rats when there was an additional 2-wk adaptation period after VEx. Given this unique temporal profile, Experiment 2 examined the cortical cytogenetic responses in all three cortical regions following a 2-wk adaptation period after VEx. In healthy (PF) rats, VEx increased the survival of progenitor cells in both the FC and RSC, but only increased oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OLPs) in the FC. Furthermore, VEx had a selective effect of only recovering OLPs in the FC in PTD rats. These data reveal the therapeutic potential of exercise to restore cortical plasticity in the amnestic brain, and that the FC is one of the most responsive cortical regions to VEx.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Hall
- Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychology, Binghamton University-State University of New York, United States
| | - R P Vetreno
- Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychology, Binghamton University-State University of New York, United States
| | - L M Savage
- Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychology, Binghamton University-State University of New York, United States.
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