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Changes in spatial memory and BDNF expression to concurrent dietary restriction and voluntary exercise
Omar F Khabour1, Karem H Alzoubi, Mahmoud A Alomari
1Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan. khabour@just.edu.jo
Hippocampus
|June 17, 2009
Summary
Voluntary exercise significantly improved spatial memory and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in rats. Dietary restriction did not alter these exercise-induced benefits, showing exercise is key for cognitive function.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Metabolic research
- Behavioral science
Background:
- Cognitive function is influenced by lifestyle factors like exercise and diet, impacting energy metabolism.
- Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a crucial role in learning and memory.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the combined effects of voluntary exercise and every-other-day fasting (EODF) on spatial memory and hippocampal BDNF levels in rats.
- To determine if EODF modulates exercise-induced cognitive and neurotrophic changes.
Main Methods:
- Wistar male rats were subjected to voluntary exercise (running wheels) and/or EODF for 6 weeks.
- Spatial memory was assessed using the radial arm water maze (RAWM).
- Hippocampal BDNF protein levels were measured using ELISA.
Main Results:
- Voluntary exercise alone significantly enhanced short-term, intermediate-term, and long-term spatial memory.
- Exercise also led to increased hippocampal BDNF protein levels.
- EODF increased running wheel activity but did not affect memory or BDNF levels, nor did it alter the effects of exercise.
Conclusions:
- Voluntary exercise is effective in enhancing spatial memory formation and hippocampal BDNF levels.
- Every-other-day fasting alone has no significant effect on spatial memory or BDNF.
- EODF does not interfere with the positive effects of exercise on cognitive function and neurotrophin expression.
