Research has shown voluntary running is an activity most commonly associated with the reversal of negative impacts of aging and neurodegeneration, but little is understood about why that is. A new study led by Waisman researcher Yu Gao, PhD, and professor Xinyu Zhao, PhD, together with collaborators provided the first genome-wide investigation of running-induced neurogenesis, or the production of new neurons, in the adult hippocampus.
To perform the study, Gao and Zhao used a new genetic mouse line that allowed them to isolate translating messenger RNA, or mRNA, from the small number of adult-born neurons of mice with either a freely moving or a locked running wheel in their cage.
“The main discovery is that genes corresponding to more mature neurons are expressed earlier in new neurons of running mice,” Zhao said.
For the full article about their research, click here: https://www.waisman.wisc.edu/2020/08/04/running-toward-renewal-new-study-links-physical-activity-with-cognitive-health/
Yu Gao, Minjie Shen, Jose Carlos Gonzalez, Qiping Dong, Sudharsan Kannan, Johnson T. Hoang, Brian E. Eisinger, Jyotsna Pandey, Sahar Javadi, Qiang Chang, Daifeng Wang, Linda Overstreet-Wadiche, Xinyu Zhao. RGS6 Mediates Effects of Voluntary Running on Adult Hippocampal Neurogenesis. Cell Reports DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.celrep.2020.107997