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Epigenetic and Neurogenomic Mechanisms Linking Physical Activity to Brain Plasticity and Cognitive Function
1Faculty of Physical Education, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland.
Genes
|May 4, 2026
Summary
Regular physical activity enhances brain health by triggering epigenetic changes that promote neuroplasticity and cognitive function. Exercise-induced adaptations improve resilience against age-related neurological decline.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Physical activity is a key lifestyle factor for brain health, supporting neuroplasticity and cognitive function.
- Exercise effects are mediated by molecular responses including epigenetics, gene expression, and inter-organ communication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review neurogenomic and epigenetic mechanisms of exercise-induced brain plasticity.
- Synthesize evidence from experimental and clinical studies.
Main Methods:
- Conducted literature searches in major scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar).
- Focused on studies investigating neurogenomic and epigenetic mechanisms of exercise-induced neuroplasticity and cognitive adaptations.
- Emphasized mechanistic and translational evidence.
Main Results:
- Physical activity induces epigenetic modifications (DNA methylation, histone modifications, microRNA expression) impacting brain plasticity genes.
- Exercise upregulates mediators of neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, angiogenesis, and metabolic adaptation.
- Exercise downregulates pathways involved in neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis.
Conclusions:
- Integrating neurogenomics and systems biology can elucidate how physical activity impacts lifelong brain plasticity.
- Findings may inform personalized exercise medicine for cognitive health and neurodegenerative disease prevention.
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