Exercise improves cognition in some people, and the mechanism may involve exercise-related increases in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). The valine/valine genotype (Val/Val) at position 66 on BDNF produces greater BDNF activity than the variant involving one or two methionine (Met) alleles. These investigators explored associations among physical activity, BDNF polymorphisms, and temporal lobe volume in 114 cognitively healthy adults (age, ≥60), who were participating in a longitudinal, partially industry-supported study of aging.
Overall, brain volumes were not correlated to self-reported habitual physical activity, but analyses by BDNF polymorphism did find associations. In the Val/Val group, greater physical activity levels were …
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresRoyaltiesTextbook of Traumatic Brain Injury, 2nd and 3rd editions
Editorial BoardsUpToDate; Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesNorth American Brain Injury Association (Board Member); National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (Chair of Data Monitoring Safety Board for study of donepezil on cognition after traumatic brain injury)
DisclosuresRoyaltiesTextbook of Traumatic Brain Injury, 2nd and 3rd editions
Editorial BoardsUpToDate; Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesNorth American Brain Injury Association (Board Member); National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (Chair of Data Monitoring Safety Board for study of donepezil on cognition after traumatic brain injury)