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Physical Activity and Brain Health
Carlo Maria Di Liegro1, Gabriella Schiera2, Patrizia Proia3
1Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche) (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy. carlomaria.diliegro@unipa.it.
Genes
|September 20, 2019
Summary
Regular physical activity (PA) counters sedentary lifestyle risks, improving brain health, cognitive function, and well-being. It influences gene expression and may delay age-related diseases.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Exercise Physiology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Human physiology evolved with physical activity, but modern lifestyles are increasingly sedentary.
- Sedentary behavior and high-energy diets contribute to adverse health outcomes, including epigenetic modifications.
- Epigenetic changes can alter gene expression and lead to heritable metabolic effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms by which physical activity impacts brain health.
- To explore the role of physical activity in mitigating negative effects of sedentary lifestyles.
- To discuss the influence of physical activity on cognitive function and neurodegenerative diseases.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on physical activity, epigenetics, and brain health.
- Analysis of studies investigating the effects of physical activity on hormones, neurotrophins, and neurotransmitters.
- Examination of intracellular and extracellular pathways involved in gene expression regulation by physical activity.
Main Results:
- Physical activity can reverse some detrimental effects of sedentary behavior.
- PA demonstrates potential in delaying brain aging and conditions like Alzheimer's Disease.
- PA positively impacts cognitive processes, memory, mood, and overall well-being.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity is crucial for maintaining brain health and cognitive function.
- PA modulates key molecular pathways, including hormones, neurotrophins, and neurotransmitters.
- Understanding these mechanisms can inform strategies for preventing cognitive decline and promoting a healthy mind in a sound body.
Keywords:
BDNFIrisinbrain healthexercise and agingexercise and neurodegenerationlactatemyokinesphysical activityMore Related Videos
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