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Biological Mechanisms of Physical Activity in Preventing Cognitive Decline

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Abstract

In order to guarantee better conditions for competition, the nervous system has developed not only mechanisms controlling muscle effectors, but also retrograde systems that, starting from peripheral structures, may influence brain functions. Under such perspective, physical activity could play an important role in influencing cognitive brain functions including learning and memory. The results of epidemiological studies (cross-sectional, prospective and retrospective) support a positive relationship between cognition and physical activities. Recent meta-analysis confirmed a significant effect of exercise on cognitive functions. However, the biological mechanisms that underlie such beneficial effects are still to be completely elucidated. They include supramolecular mechanisms (e.g. neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, and angiogenesis) which, in turn, are controlled by molecular mechanisms, such as BDNF, IGF-1, hormone and second messengers.

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Acknowledgements

This study was sponsored by grants from MIUR (PRIN); Regione Campania (L.R. 5/02), Italy; Progetto Strategico Alzheimer (Ministero della Salute-Regione Lazio) Italy; and Provincia di Salerno (Assessorato allo Sport, Salute e Qualità della Vita) Italy.

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  1. University of Naples Parthenope, Istituto di diagnosi e cura Hermitage Capodimonte, Naples, Italy

    I. Lista & G. Sorrentino

  2. Faculty of Motor Sciences, University of Naples Parthenope, Via Acton 38, 80133, Naples, Italy

    G. Sorrentino

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  1. I. Lista
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  2. G. Sorrentino
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Correspondence to G. Sorrentino.

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Lista, I., Sorrentino, G. Biological Mechanisms of Physical Activity in Preventing Cognitive Decline. Cell Mol Neurobiol 30, 493–503 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10571-009-9488-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10571-009-9488-x

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