Exercise: a possible treatment for neurodegeneration

Level 3

Fryer et al. Exercise and genetic rescue of SCA1 via the transcriptional repressor Capicua. Science. 2011 Nov 4;334(6056):690-3.

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1) is caused by expansion of a translated CAG repeat in Ataxin-1 (ATXN1). To determine the long-term effects of exercise, this study implemented a mild exercise regimen in a mouse model of SCA1 and found a considerable improvement in survival accompanied by up-regulation of epidermal growth factor and consequential down-regulation of Capicua, which is an ATXN1 interactor. 

Conclusion: Thus, exercise might have long-term beneficial effects in other ataxias and neurodegenerative diseases.

See commentary: Gitler. Neuroscience. Another reason to exercise. Science. 2011 Nov 4;334(6056):606-7.

"The scientific case for regular aerobic exercise is compelling. Would you not agree?"

"If any of you are having problems motivating yourselves, I would suggest reading the book 'BORN TO RUN' by Christopher McDougall; you will be out running the moment you have read the book!"