Abstract book (download .pdf file) - Redox and Inflammation ...

Signaling Pathways that Help Neurons Help Themselves
Mark P. Mattson
Laboratory of Neurosciences, National Institute on Aging Intramural Research
Program, Baltimore, MD. USA.
It is important that neurons be stimulated regularly to activate adaptive stress response
signaling pathways involving transcription factors that induce the expression of neurotrophic
factors, protein chaperones and antioxidant enzymes. Such stimulation can be accomplished
by exercise (both physical and cognitive), dietary energy restriction and ingestion of certain
phytochemicals and drugs. The results of studies of animal models suggest that dietary
energy restriction and exercise can enhance neural plasticity and reduce the vulnerability of
the brain to disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s diseases, and stroke. Diabetes and
obesity may compromise the function of adaptive cellular stress response pathways and
thereby render neurons vulnerable to aging, injury and disease. Energy state-sensitive factors
that are proving particularly important in regulating energy balance and improving or
preserving cognitive function are brain-derived neurotrophic factor and glucagon-like peptide
1. Alternate day calorie restriction, novel insulin-sensitizing and neuroprotective agents, and
drugs that activate adaptive stress response pathways, are examples of approaches for
preserving brain function that show promise in preclinical studies.
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