Researchers: Sarah K Jachim, Ayumi E Sakamoto, Xu Zhang, Vesselina M Pearsall, Marissa J Schafer, Nathan K LeBrasseur
Dr. Mark Mattson has had a highly productive and impactful tenure as a neuroscientist at the Intramural Research Program of the National Institute on Aging. He has made notable contributions to understanding the mechanisms by which energetic stress, imparted by behaviors such as physical activity and periods of fasting, promotes rejuvenation and resilience within brain regions critical for learning and memory. In honor of Dr. Mattson’s work, this manuscript will highlight the fascinating mechanisms by which endurance exercise training conveys beneficial effects upon the structure and function of the nervous system; that is, by mediating the synthesis and secretion of factors that directly support brain homeostasis, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor, FNDC5/irisin, ketone bodies, growth factors, cathepsin B, serotonin, and 4-hydroxynonenal. The molecular and cellular effects of these factors are discussed herein. In the face of population aging and an overwhelming surge in the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders, Dr. Mattson’s work as a champion and role model for physically active lifestyles is more important than ever.
References
- Neuronal and cognitive plasticity: a neurocognitive framework for ameliorating cognitive aging.
- Blood factors transfer beneficial effects of exercise on neurogenesis and cognition to the aged brain.
- 3-Hydroxybutyrate regulates energy metabolism and induces BDNF expression in cerebral cortical neurons.
- 3-Hydroxybutyrate regulates energy metabolism and induces BDNF expression in cerebral cortical neurons.
- BDNF mediates adaptive brain and body responses to energetic challenges.
- Energy intake and exercise as determinants of brain health and vulnerability to injury and disease.
- Evolutionary aspects of human exercise—born to run purposefully.
- Brain-derived neurotrophic factor as a regulator of systemic and brain energy metabolism and cardiovascular health.
Topic: Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and Exercise in Aging