scholarly journals Exercise, brain, and cognition across the life span

2011 ◽  
Vol 111 (5) ◽  
pp. 1505-1513 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michelle W. Voss ◽  
Lindsay S. Nagamatsu ◽  
Teresa Liu-Ambrose ◽  
Arthur F. Kramer
Keyword(s):  
Resistance Training ◽  
Animal Models ◽  
Life Span ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Brain Health ◽  
Future Directions ◽  
Exercise Type ◽  
Clinically Significant ◽  
The Brain ◽  
Human Neuroimaging

This is a brief review of current evidence for the relationships between physical activity and exercise and the brain and cognition throughout the life span in non-pathological populations. We focus on the effects of both aerobic and resistance training and provide a brief overview of potential neurobiological mechanisms derived from non-human animal models. Whereas research has focused primarily on the benefits of aerobic exercise in youth and young adult populations, there is growing evidence that both aerobic and resistance training are important for maintaining cognitive and brain health in old age. Finally, in these contexts, we point out gaps in the literature and future directions that will help advance the field of exercise neuroscience, including more studies that explicitly examine the effect of exercise type and intensity on cognition, the brain, and clinically significant outcomes. There is also a need for human neuroimaging studies to adopt a more unified multi-modal framework and for greater interaction between human and animal models of exercise effects on brain and cognition across the life span.

Alcohol Use Disorder

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Igor Ponomarev
Keyword(s):  
Alcohol Use ◽  
Alcohol Use Disorder ◽  
Critical Discussion ◽  
Epigenetic Mechanisms ◽  
Future Directions ◽  
Clinically Significant ◽  
Early Life Exposures ◽  
The Brain ◽  
Epigenetic Research

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is characterized by clinically significant impairments in health and social function. Epigenetic mechanisms of gene regulation may provide an attractive explanation for how early life exposures to alcohol contribute to the development of AUD and exert lifelong effects on the brain. This chapter provides a critical discussion of the role of epigenetic mechanisms in AUD etiology and the potential of epigenetic research to improve diagnosis, evaluate risks for alcohol-induced pathologies, and promote development of novel therapies for the prevention and treatment of AUD. Challenges of the current epigenetic approaches and future directions are also discussed.

scholarly journals Reward, Context, and Human Behaviour

2007 ◽  
Vol 7 ◽  
pp. 626-640 ◽  
Author(s):  
Clare L. Blaukopf ◽  
Gregory J. DiGirolamo
Keyword(s):  
Animal Models ◽  
Human Mind ◽  
Reward Processing ◽  
Review Of The Literature ◽  
Related Activity ◽  
Brain Areas ◽  
Extant Literature ◽  
Relative Value ◽  
The Brain ◽  
Human Neuroimaging

Animal models of reward processing have revealed an extensive network of brain areas that process different aspects of reward, from expectation and prediction to calculation of relative value. These results have been confirmed and extended in human neuroimaging to encompass secondary rewards more unique to humans, such as money. The majority of the extant literature covers the brain areas associated with rewards whilst neglecting analysis of the actual behaviours that these rewards generate. This review strives to redress this imbalance by illustrating the importance of looking at the behavioural outcome of rewards and the context in which they are produced. Following a brief review of the literature of reward-related activity in the brain, we examine the effect of reward context on actions. These studies reveal how the presence of reward vs. rewardandpunishment, or being conscious vs. unconscious of reward-related actions, differentially influence behaviour. The latter finding is of particular importance given the extent to which animal models are used in understanding the reward systems of the human mind. It is clear that further studies are needed to learn about the human reaction to reward in its entirety, including any distinctions between conscious and unconscious behaviours. We propose that studies of reward entail a measure of the animal's (human or nonhuman) knowledge of the reward and knowledge of its own behavioural outcome to achieve that reward.

scholarly journals Neuroactive Steroids in Schizophrenia

2005 ◽  
Vol 50 (11) ◽  
pp. 695-702 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yanina Shulman ◽  
Philip G Tibbo
Keyword(s):  
Animal Models ◽  
Psychiatric Disorder ◽  
Antipsychotic Medication ◽  
Research Literature ◽  
Neuroactive Steroids ◽  
Current Understanding ◽  
Future Directions ◽  
The Brain ◽  
Biochemical Abnormalities

Schizophrenia is a psychiatric disorder with a complicated pathophysiology, involving many biochemical abnormalities in the brain. Because neuroactive steroids (NASs) modulate neurotransmitter systems that are implicated in the pathology of schizophrenia, recent research has focused on examining the role that NASs play in the illness. Although research in this area is relatively new, it appears that NASs may potentially be implicated in the pathophysiology of the illness. This paper reviews the current understanding of NASs, the research literature on NASs in schizophrenia and in animal models of the illness (including the effects of antipsychotic medication on NASs) and on the potential antipsychotic role of NASs themselves and, finally, discusses future directions for this area of schizophrenia research.

scholarly journals Hippocampal Growth Factor and Myokine Cathepsin B Expression following Aerobic and Resistance Training in 3xTg-AD Mice

2020 ◽  
Vol 2020 ◽  
pp. 1-11 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gabriel S. Pena ◽  
Hector G. Paez ◽  
Trevor K. Johnson ◽  
Jessica L. Halle ◽  
Joseph P. Carzoli ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Resistance Training ◽  
Brain Function ◽  
Cathepsin B ◽  
Aerobic Training ◽  
Treadmill Running ◽  
Direct Effects ◽  
Brain Health ◽  
Training Modalities ◽  
The Brain

Aerobic training (AT) can support brain health in Alzheimer’s disease (AD); however, the role of resistance training (RT) in AD is not well established. Aside from direct effects on the brain, exercise may also regulate brain function through secretion of muscle-derived myokines. Aims. This study examined the effects of AT and RT on hippocampal BDNF and IGF-1 signaling, β-amyloid expression, and myokine cathepsin B in the triple transgenic (3xTg-AD) model of AD. 3xTg-AD mice were assigned to one of the following groups: sedentary (Tg), aerobic trained (Tg+AT, 9 wks treadmill running), or resistance trained (Tg+RT, 9 wks weighted ladder climbing) (n=10/group). Rotarod latency and strength were assessed pre- and posttraining. Hippocampus and skeletal muscle were collected after training and analyzed by high-resolution respirometry, ELISA, and immunoblotting. Tg+RT showed greater grip strength than Tg and Tg+AT at posttraining (p<0.01). Only Tg+AT improved rotarod peak latency (p<0.01). Hippocampal IGF-1 concentration was ~15% greater in Tg+AT and Tg+RT compared to Tg (p<0.05); however, downstream signals of p-IGF-1R, p-Akt, p-MAPK, and p-GSK3β were not altered. Cathepsin B, hippocampal p-CREB and BDNF, and hippocampal mitochondrial respiration were not affected by AT or RT. β-Amyloid was ~30% lower in Tg+RT compared to Tg (p<0.05). This data suggests that regular resistance training reduces β-amyloid in the hippocampus concurrent with increased concentrations of IGF-1. Both types of training offered distinct benefits, either by improving physical function or by modifying signals in the hippocampus. Therefore, inclusion of both training modalities may address central defects, as well as peripheral comorbidities in AD.

scholarly journals The olfactory nerve is not a likely route to brain infection in COVID-19: a critical review of data from humans and animal models

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rafal Butowt ◽  
Nicolas Meunier ◽  
Bertrand Bryche ◽  
Christopher S. von Bartheld
Keyword(s):  
Animal Models ◽  
Virus Entry ◽  
Olfactory Nerve ◽  
Olfactory Receptor Neurons ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Olfactory Neurons ◽  
Brain Infection ◽  
Receptor Neurons ◽  
Alternative Routes ◽  
The Brain

AbstractOne of the most frequent symptoms of COVID-19 is the loss of smell and taste. Based on the lack of expression of the virus entry proteins in olfactory receptor neurons, it was originally assumed that the new coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, SARS-CoV-2) does not infect olfactory neurons. Recent studies have reported otherwise, opening the possibility that the virus can directly infect the brain by traveling along the olfactory nerve. Multiple animal models have been employed to assess mechanisms and routes of brain infection of SARS-CoV-2, often with conflicting results. We here review the current evidence for an olfactory route to brain infection and conclude that the case for infection of olfactory neurons is weak, based on animal and human studies. Consistent brain infection after SARS-CoV-2 inoculation in mouse models is only seen when the virus entry proteins are expressed abnormally, and the timeline and progression of rare neuro-invasion in these and in other animal models points to alternative routes to the brain, other than along the olfactory projections. COVID-19 patients can be assured that loss of smell does not necessarily mean that the SARS-CoV-2 virus has gained access to and has infected their brains.

Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Studies in Substance Abusers

2013 ◽  
pp. 742-756
Author(s):  
Linda Chang ◽  
Christine C. Cloak ◽  
John L. Holt
Keyword(s):  
Magnetic Resonance ◽  
Drugs Of Abuse ◽  
Substance Abusers ◽  
Resonance Spectroscopy ◽  
Brain Metabolites ◽  
Brain Health ◽  
Future Directions ◽  
Abused Drugs ◽  
Spectroscopy Studies ◽  
The Brain

Brain metabolites reflecting neuronal and glial content can be measured with in vivomagnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS),which has been applied to assess the brain health associated with various drugs of abuse. The specific neurochemical alterations associated withseveral major categories of abused drugs, including those from psychostimulants, inhalants, opiates, alcohol, and cannabis, were reviewed and compared. Sometechnical issues to be considered in the use of MRS to assess brain pathology and the future directions of MRS to assess drugs of abuse were also discussed.

Evaluation of a Field-Ready Neurofunctional Assessment Tool for Use in a Military Environment

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mark Tommerdahl ◽  
Oleg Favarov ◽  
Christina D Wagner ◽  
Timothy J Walilko ◽  
Laila Zai ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Animal Models ◽  
Outcome Measures ◽  
Service Members ◽  
Significant Advance ◽  
Integrative Approach ◽  
Naval Research ◽  
Brain Health ◽  
Blast Exposure ◽  
The Impact ◽  
The Brain

ABSTRACT Introduction The Office of Naval Research sponsored the Blast Load Assessment Sense and Test (BLAST) program to develop a rapid, in-field solution that could be used by team leaders, commanders, and medical personnel to provide a standardized approach to operationally relevant monitoring and analysis of service members exposed to single or repeated low-level blast. A critical piece of the BLAST team’s solution was the development of the Brain Gauge technology which includes a cognitive assessment device that measures neurofunctional changes by testing sensory perceptions and a suite of mathematical algorithms that analyze the results of the test. The most recent versions of the technology are easily portable; the device is in the size and shape of a computer mouse. Tests can be administered in a matter of minutes and do not require oversight by a clinician, making Brain Gauge an excellent choice for field use. This paper describes the theoretical underpinnings and performance of a fieldable Brain Gauge technology for use with military populations. Materials and Methods The methods used by the Brain Gauge have been documented in over 80 peer-reviewed publications. These papers are reviewed, and the utility of the Brain Gauge is described in terms of those publications. Results The Brain Gauge has been demonstrated to be an effective tool for assessing blast-induced neurotrauma and tracking its recovery. Additionally, the method parallels neurophysiological findings of animal models which provide insight into the sensitivity of specific metrics to mechanisms of information processing. Conclusions The overall objective of the work was to provide an efficient tool, or tools, that can be effectively used for (1) determining stand-down criteria when critical levels of blast exposure have been reached and (2) tracking the brain health history until return-to-duty status is achieved. Neurofunctional outcome measures will provide the scientific link between blast sensors and the impact of blast on biological health. This calibration process is strengthened with outcome measures that have a biological basis that are paralleled in animal models. The integrative approach that utilizes the Brain Gauge technology will provide a significant advance for assessing the impact of blast exposure and support rapid, science-based decision-making that will ensure mission success and promote the protection of brain health in service members.

Current Evidence on the Effect of Dietary Polyphenols Intake on Brain Health

2020 ◽  
Vol 16 (8) ◽  
pp. 1170-1182 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stefania D'Angelo
Keyword(s):  
Central Nervous System ◽  
Nervous System ◽  
Dietary Intake ◽  
Neurodegenerative Diseases ◽  
Health Benefits ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Brain Health ◽  
Dietary Polyphenols ◽  
The Central Nervous System ◽  
The Brain

Background: In recent years, the possibility of favorably influencing the cognitive capacity through the promotion of lifestyle modifications has been increasingly investigated. In particular, the relationship between nutritional habits and brain health has attracted special attention. Polyphenols are secondary metabolites of plants. These phytochemicals are present in vegetables, fruits, legumes, olive oil, nuts. They include several antioxidant compounds and are generally considered to be involved in defense against chronic human diseases. In recent years, there has been a growing scientific interest in their potential health benefits to the brain. Objective: In this mini-review, we focus on the current evidence defining the position of polyphenols dietary intake in the prevention/slowdown of human neurodegenerative diseases. Methods: A literature research was performed using the keywords “polyphenols”, “brain”, “nutrition”, individually or all together, focusing on human trials. Results: The available clinical studies on the effect of polyphenols on cognitive functions are quite convincing. Regular dietary intake of polyphenols would seem to reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Moreover, beyond their beneficial power on the central nervous system, these phytochemicals seem also to be able to work on numerous cellular targets. They show different biological actions, that however, have to be confirmed in long-term randomized clinical trials. Currently, most data propose that a combination of phytonutrients instead of any single polyphenol is responsible for health benefits. Conclusions: Evolving indications suggest that dietary polyphenols may exercise beneficial actions on the central nervous system, thus representing a possible tool to preserve cognitive performance. Key questions to improve the coherence and reproducibility in the development of polyphenols as a possible future therapeutic drug require a better understanding of the sources of polyphenols, their treatment and more standardized tests including bioavailability of bioactive metabolites and studies of permeability of the brain.

scholarly journals Physical activity for brain health in older adults

2018 ◽  
Vol 43 (11) ◽  
pp. 1105-1112 ◽  
Author(s):  
Teresa Liu-Ambrose ◽  
Cindy K. Barha ◽  
John R. Best
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Brain Health ◽  
Future Directions ◽  
Biological Sex ◽  
Promising Strategy ◽  
Dementia Prevention ◽  
Underlying Mechanisms

Physical activity is a promising strategy for dementia prevention and disease modification. Here, we provide a narrative review of the current evidence from epidemiological and intervention studies on the role of physical activity and exercise in promoting cognitive health in older adults both without and with cognitive impairment. We highlight some of the potential underlying mechanisms and discuss biological sex as a potential moderating factor. We conclude with limitations and future directions for this rapidly expanding line of research.

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