Effects of remote ischemic conditioning on cognitive performance: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Gerontology
• Cardiovascular Research

Background:

• Aging is associated with cognitive decline, potentially leading to dementia.
• Physical activity is known to benefit cognitive function.
• Remote Ischemic Conditioning (RIC) is a non-invasive intervention with potential to mitigate age-related cognitive changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of single, short-term, and long-term Remote Ischemic Conditioning (RIC) on human cognitive performance.
• To analyze the immediate versus long-term impact of RIC on cognition.
• To systematically review existing randomized controlled trials on RIC and cognitive function.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
• Searched six major healthcare science databases up to December 2021.
• Included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of RIC in adults (≥18 years) with cognitive performance outcomes.
• Assessed study quality using the GRADEpro tool.

Main Results:

• 14 RCTs involving 772 patients were included.
• Single RIC treatment provided an immediate cognitive effect that was not sustained beyond one week.
• Short-term RIC yielded mixed results, showing either positive effects or no significant changes in cognitive function.
• Long-term RIC demonstrated improvements in cognitive performance, especially in the very old and those with existing cognitive impairments.

Conclusions:

• Single RIC interventions do not appear to have lasting effects on cognition.
• Repeated short-term RIC may offer some cognitive benefits.
• Long-term RIC shows potential for improving cognitive function post-stroke and in patients with vascular dementia.
• Variability in RIC protocols and study populations may explain the mixed findings.