The Effects of Exercise on Synaptic Plasticity in Individuals With Mild Cognitive Impairment and in Healthy Aging.

The research is focused on ameliorating cognitive decline in aging and in individuals diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). In the proposed research, we ask whether synaptic plasticity is modified by exercise in these groups and if these changes relate to improved cognition. We know that cognition improves with exercise, but if we discover that synaptic plasticity is indeed modified by exercise, this opens many possibilities for us to explore new approaches to change synaptic plasticity in these populations. We view this project as benefiting all aging individuals, with or without MCI, since we are working to improve cognition. Understanding the mechanisms will help design better therapeutic strategies for older adults.