Voluntary exercise has been shown to shift gene expression patterns in the brain
These gene transcripts are associated with synaptic structure & neuroplasticity which are important in learning and memory
Parents need to instill a culture of an active lifestyle for their kids‼️
Tong et al. (2001) compared gene-expression profiles between animal subjects that were voluntarily exercising and those that were sedentary. Almost half the genes that showed differential increases were ones that happened to be related to neural signaling
Here are some results:
-mRNA levels of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which are needed for function of the neurons increased in the hippocampus(structure for memory)
-Nerve growth factor polypeptides (building blocks of proteins) increased to help the neuroendocrine system(hormones) function
The extracellular matrix is a network of proteins that occupy the space between neurons
-Several genes that code for proteins related to extracellular matrix adhesion molecules that help with synaptic plasticity and forming neural networks were increased
-Exercise can remodel nervous system tissues due to an increase in transcripts of immediate early genes (IEG) that regulate growth and plasticity
-Gene-expressed receptors for steroids found in neural tissues (neurosteroids) that modulate neurotransmitters & improve memory ⬆️
-Exercise even changed gene transcripts related to immune responses necessary for a low level inflammatory response that keeps tissue healthy
-mRNA for genes related to apoptosis (cell death) we’re reduced allowing for more usable neurons to obtain skills
Long term potentiation (repetitions) of neural pathways related to gene expression are changed through exercise
This information is complex but the main point here is for parents and coaches to understand that movement is necessary for gene expression that helps athletes improve
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