Aerobic Exercise is a Weapon Against Alzheimer's
It may be possible to outrun Alzheimer's disease.
Scientists at the University of Bristol found regular aerobic exercise could significantly reduce disease markers associated with Alzheimer's.
by Staff Reports
Aerobic exercise is the foundation of cardiorespiratory fitness, but new research out of England shows its effect on brain health. Scientists at the University of Bristol found regular aerobic exercise could significantly reduce disease markers associated with Alzheimer's.
The results of this rodent study provide hope that something may be done to lessen the effects of this devastating disease that is thought to be incurable. The findings published in the journal Brain Research show regular exercise restores balance in the aging brain, in addition to protecting healthy brain cells.
The focus of the study was on the hippocampus region of the brain, which is responsible for memory and learning. The impacts of aerobic exercise were seen in key Alzheimer's markers like amyloid plaques, tau tangles and iron accumulation in myelin-producing cells known as oligodendrocytes.
The rodents that completed a structured exercise program had significant reductions in amyloid plaques (76%), tau tangles (63%) and iron accumulation (58%). In addition, their brains had increased numbers of protective oligodendrocytes and brain inflammation was greatly reduced.
This allowed for improved communication between brain cells which is critical in keeping balance in bran function as it ages.
"Alzheimer's is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with no known cure, impacting millions worldwide," Dr. Augusto Coppi said. "While physical exercise is known to reduce cognitive decline, the cellular mechanisms behind its neuroprotective effects have remained elusive—until now. This research highlights the potential for aerobic exercise to serve as a cornerstone in preventive strategies for Alzheimer's."
The findings show regular aerobic exercise could play a critical role in slowing or preventing Alzheimer's progression. The next step for researchers is to conduct human trials to see if the same protective effects seen in rodents can be duplicated in humans. They will also look at drugs aimed at targeting iron metabolism and cell death as possible approaches to combating Alzheimer's disease.