How Do The Variants Of The BDNF Gene, Particularly The Val66Met Polymorphism, Influence The Efficacy Of Aerobic Exercise As A Non-pharmacological Intervention To Improve Cognitive Function And Reduce Amyloid-β Burden In Asymptomatic Individuals With A Family History Of Early-onset Alzheimer's Disease?

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The Val66Met polymorphism of the BDNF gene influences the efficacy of aerobic exercise in improving cognitive function and reducing amyloid-β burden in asymptomatic individuals with a family history of early-onset Alzheimer's disease. Here's a structured summary of the key points:

  1. BDNF and Its Role: BDNF is crucial for neuronal survival, growth, and connectivity. It plays a significant role in learning and memory.

  2. Val66Met Polymorphism: This variation affects BDNF secretion and function. The Met allele is associated with reduced BDNF activity, potentially impacting cognitive functions and neuroplasticity.

  3. Exercise and BDNF: Aerobic exercise increases BDNF levels, enhancing cognitive health. However, individuals with the Met allele may have a diminished response to exercise-induced BDNF increases.

  4. Cognitive Function: Studies suggest that Val/Val individuals may experience greater cognitive benefits from exercise compared to Met carriers, who might show a reduced response due to less effective BDNF function.

  5. Amyloid-β Burden: Exercise is linked to reduced amyloid-β plaques, possibly via BDNF. The Met allele might limit this effect, making exercise less effective in reducing amyloid burden in these individuals.

  6. Considerations: While the Val66Met polymorphism is a factor, other genetic and environmental influences also affect exercise efficacy. Personalized approaches considering genetic makeup could be beneficial.

In conclusion, the Val66Met polymorphism may modulate the effectiveness of aerobic exercise in cognitive improvement and amyloid-β reduction. Val carriers might benefit more, while Met carriers could have a reduced response. Further research is needed to explore these interactions fully, especially in high-risk populations.