Inhibitory mechanisms of cognitive impairment and depression through cerebrospinal and interstitial fluid flows induced by exercise or motile cilia

2023 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 22K21268
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Research Activity Start-up
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: 0909:Sports sciences, physical education, health sciences, and related fields
• Research Institution: Kyushu University (2023); National Cardiovascular Center Research Institute (2022)
• Principal Investigator: Ochi Ryosuke 九州大学, 医学研究院, 助教 (80965525)
• Project Period (FY): 2022-08-31 – 2024-03-31
• Keywords: 運動 / メカニカルストレス / 脳脊髄液 / 間質液 / 認知機能障害 / うつ病 / 不安

Outline of Final Research Achievements

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether vertical head motions mimicking mechanical accelerations during physical exercise inhibit cognitive impairment and depression-like behavior in mice. Although mechanical impact on the head induced by passive head motion under anesthesia has been reported to mediate the effects of exercise on the brain, we found that anesthesia can affect cognitive function and emotional behavior in mice. Therefore, we developed a passive body motion system that can be used for awake mice as an alternative. The passive body motion ameliorated cognitive impairments, depression-like behavior, and anxiety-related behavior in mice.

Free Research Field

リハビリテーション科学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

運動が認知症やうつ症状を改善することが報告されているが、その効果をもたらす本体は十分に明らかにされていない。本研究の結果は、運動時に身体に生じる衝撃が、運動による認知症やうつ症状の改善効果のメカニズムに関与していることを示唆するものであり、運動療法の最適化と、運動をしたくてもできない者にも適用できる治療法の開発につながる。