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Therapeutically relevant structural and functional mechanisms triggered by physical and cognitive exercise
C Suo1,2,3,4, M Fiatarone Singh5,6, N Gates1,2,4
1Regenerative Neuroscience Group, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
Molecular Psychiatry
|March 23, 2016
Summary
Physical exercise improved cognition and brain structure, while cognitive training enhanced memory performance in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. Both interventions target distinct neural mechanisms for dementia prevention.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Dementia prevention strategies are crucial for aging populations.
- Neural mechanisms of physical and cognitive exercise benefits remain unclear.
- Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a prodromal stage of dementia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distinct structural and functional brain changes induced by progressive resistance training (PRT) and computerized cognitive training (CCT) in individuals with MCI.
- To explore the relationship between cognitive improvements and neuroimaging biomarkers.
Main Methods:
- 100 older adults with MCI were randomized into four groups: PRT+CCT, PRT+SHAM CCT, CCT+SHAM PRT, and double SHAM.
- Multimodal MRI (structural and functional) and cognitive assessments were performed at baseline and after 6 months.
- Analysis focused on the hippocampus, posterior cingulate, and white matter hyperintensities.
Main Results:
- Progressive resistance training (PRT) significantly improved global cognition and increased gray matter volume in the posterior cingulate cortex.
- PRT also reversed the progression of white matter hyperintensities, a marker of cerebrovascular disease.
- Computerized cognitive training (CCT) attenuated memory decline, associated with enhanced hippocampal-superior frontal functional connectivity.
Conclusions:
- Physical and cognitive training engage discrete neural mechanisms for therapeutic effects in individuals with MCI.
- Findings suggest potential for targeted, lifestyle-based strategies to prevent or delay dementia.
- PRT benefits global cognition and brain structure, while CCT specifically enhances memory through functional connectivity.
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