A new study has explored the potential of regular physical exercise to modify genetic risk factors associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

Researchers called for larger, longer-term studies focusing on at-risk populations to further investigate the relationship between exercise and gene expression.

Despite a growing body of research indicating that exercise promotes cognitive health, the study found no significant changes in Alzheimer’s disease-related gene expression following a six-month intervention.

“Despite the lack of significant findings, this study provides valuable insights,” said the research team. 

The researchers emphasised the broader health benefits of regular physical exercise, which is well-established in enhancing cognitive health and overall well-being. 

The research, titled Exploration of Alzheimer’s disease-related gene expression following high-intensity and moderate-intensity exercise interventions is published in the latest edition of the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport (JSAMS).

“The study highlights the complexity of gene expression in humans and the challenges of linking it to exercise interventions,” researchers said

The study builds on previous research suggesting that exercise can influence systemic gene expression, including genes related to metabolism and inflammation. 

Animal studies have shown promising results, including the modulation of Alzheimer’s disease-related genes and a reduction of beta-amyloid — a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. 

However, translating these findings to humans has proven challenging.

The research involved 91 cognitively unimpaired older adults. 

Participants were divided into three groups: high-intensity exercise, moderate-intensity exercise, and inactive control. 

Over six months, blood samples were collected before and after the intervention to measure expression levels of 96 Alzheimer’s disease-related genes.

The study hypothesised that high-intensity exercise would upregulate protective genes and downregulate risk genes, but results showed no significant differences in gene expression across the three groups. 

Within-group analysis revealed some changes, but these alterations were not distinct from changes observed in the control group.

The researchers noted several factors that could explain the results. 

Gene expression may differ between blood and brain tissue, and the sample size may have limited the ability to detect subtle changes. 

Changes in gene expression might be transient, requiring more frequent sampling to capture, researchers said.

Researchers also identified several genes as potential targets for future studies.

“While exercise may not directly influence Alzheimer’s disease-related gene expression in this context, it remains a promising strategy for overall brain health,” the researchers concluded. 

They said the study underscores the need for continued research into the genetic pathways linking exercise and cognitive health, with the ultimate goal of identifying effective preventative strategies for Alzheimer’s disease.

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About JSAMS

The Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport (JSAMS) is published by Sports Medicine Australia.

The journal provides high-quality, original research papers to keep Sports Medicine Australia members and subscribers informed of developments in the areas of sports exercise and medicine, sports injury, physical activity, and sports exercise and science.