Effects of Running on Brain Factors in Female Mice
Author Information
Author(s): Sofia Gustafsson, Wen Liang, Susanne Hilke
Primary Institution: Linköping University
Hypothesis
Long-term voluntary exercise influences BDNF and CRFR2 gene expression in the lateral septum of female mice.
Conclusion
Long-term voluntary exercise increases BDNF gene expression in the lateral septum of female mice but does not affect CRFR2 or CRF levels.
Supporting Evidence
- BDNF mRNA levels increased three-fold in the lateral septum after three weeks of voluntary running.
- No significant changes in CRFR2 mRNA levels were observed.
- Plasma corticosterone levels decreased by approximately 18% in the running group.
- Plasma leptin levels decreased by 60% following exercise.
Takeaway
When female mice run a lot, a brain chemical called BDNF goes up, which is good for their mood, but another chemical, CRFR2, doesn't change.
Methodology
The study used quantitative RT-PCR to measure gene expression in brain biopsies from exercised and control female mice.
Limitations
The study did not measure BDNF protein levels.
Participant Demographics
20 naïve, 5-week-old C57/BL6 female mice.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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