A Dual-Task Paradigm Combining Physical and Cognitive Training in Mice: Application to Aging

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Gerontology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Physical activity (PA) and cognitive training (CT) benefit health, particularly in older adults.
• Combining PA and CT, either simultaneously (Dual-Task, DT) or sequentially, may enhance these benefits.
• The mechanisms underlying combined PA and CT effects are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and test a cognitive-motor DT paradigm in mice.
• To investigate the effects of simultaneous and sequential PA and CT on cognitive and motor performance across the lifespan.
• To explore potential benefits for aging.

Main Methods:

• A touchscreen-based cognitive-motor DT paradigm was developed in young adult C57BL/6J mice.
• Mice underwent Visual Discrimination (VD) and Reversal (RVD) learning tasks, with PA administered simultaneously (DT) or sequentially (SeqT) with CT.
• Performance was assessed in young adulthood and again at 19 months of age (old age).

Main Results:

• Young adult mice in the DT group showed superior procedural learning in VD and RVD tasks compared to SeqT and control groups.
• Enhanced RVD performance in young DT mice was linked to poorer inhibition and motor skills.
• At 19 months, both DT and SeqT groups exhibited improved motor and cognitive functions compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• The developed cognitive-motor DT paradigm provides a framework for studying combined PA and CT in aging.
• Simultaneous cognitive-motor training shows promise for enhancing learning and potentially mitigating age-related cognitive and motor decline.
• Further research into the neurobiological underpinnings can optimize DT training benefits for aging populations.