Physical exercise as an epigenetic modulator of brain plasticity and cognition. (September 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fernandes, Jansen; Arida, Ricardo Mario; Gomez-Pinilla, Fernando
• Is Part Of: Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews. Volume 80(2017)
• Page Start: 443
• Page End: 456
• Publication Date: 2017-09
• Subjects: Exercise -- Memory -- Epigenetics -- Brain -- DNA methylation -- Histones -- miRNAs; Psychophysiology -- Periodicals; Human behavior -- Periodicals; Animal behavior -- Periodicals; Neurology -- Periodicals; Behavior -- Periodicals; Ethology -- Periodicals; Neurology -- Periodicals; Psychophysiologie -- Périodiques; Comportement humain -- Périodiques; Animaux -- Mœurs et comportement -- Périodiques; Neurologie -- Périodiques; Animal behavior; Human behavior; Neurology; Psychophysiology; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 573.8
• DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2017.06.012
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0149-7634

Abstract

Highlights: Exercise regulates DNA methylation and histone acetylation in the hippocampus. Exercise enhances bdnf expression by engaging epigenetic mechanisms. Exercise modulates the expression of memory-related miRNAs. The beneficial effects of exercise are epigenetically inherited. Abstract: A large amount of evidence has demonstrated the power of exercise to support cognitive function, the effects of which can last for considerable time. An emerging line of scientific evidence indicates that the effects of exercise are longer lasting than previously thought up to the point to affect future generations. The action of exercise on epigenetic regulation of gene expression seem central to building an "epigenetic memory" to influence long-term brain function and behavior. In this review article, we discuss new developments in the epigenetic field connecting exercise with changes in cognitive function, including DNA methylation, histone modifications and microRNAs (miRNAs). The understanding of how exercise promotes long-term cognitive effects is crucial for directing the power of exercise to reduce the burden of neurological and psychiatric disorders.