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Abstract Details

BDNF Mediates Improvement in Cognitive Performance after Computerized Cognitive Training
Aging, Dementia, and Behavioral Neurology
Aging and Dementia Posters (7:00 AM-5:00 PM)
090

To determine whether changes in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mediate improvements in cognitive performance after a computerized cognitive training (CCT).
Animal research suggests that BDNF plays a critical role in neural plasticity, synaptic growth, and neurogenesis. Investigations of human subjects have largely focused on studying whether physical or mental activities can augment BDNF levels. There has been surprisingly little research linking changes in BDNF to changes in cognition. We have reported that after five weeks of CCT emphasizing working memory (WM), performance improved on an untrained test of WM and processing speed, the Digit Symbol Test. Here, we examined whether this improvement was mediated by changes in BDNF levels.
Seventy-five participants, ages 65-86, across two sites (USA and Sweden) were randomized to either Cogmed Adaptive (n=37) or Non-Adaptive (active control) (n=38) CCT. Under the adaptive CCT, task difficulty was revised on a trial-by-trial basis to create a consistently high level of challenge, whereas under the control condition, task load remained at a constant, relatively low level. CCT was performed in participants’ homes, five days per week over five weeks. Serum BDNF levels and performance on Digit Symbol were measured pre- and post-intervention.

Linear Mixed Models analysis demonstrated a time-by-intervention group interaction for Digit Symbol score (p=.036), and BDNF level (p=.013), with only the adaptive CCT group demonstrating improvement in Digit Symbol scores (p<.001) and augmentation of BDNF level (p=.014). Mediation analysis suggested that changes in BDNF level accounted for the intervention-related improvement on Digit Symbol. Regression analysis revealed that changes in BDNF level predicted changes in Digit Symbol score (p=.010).

 
The results of this study suggest that cognitive training-related increases in BDNF help mediate improvement in cognitive performance after CCT.
Authors/Disclosures
Casey Nicastri
PRESENTER 		Casey Nicastri has nothing to disclose.
Sharon S. Simon (University of Sao Paulo Medical School) No disclosure on file
No disclosure on file
No disclosure on file
No disclosure on file
No disclosure on file
No disclosure on file
Kirk R. Daffner, MD, FÂ鶹´«Ã½Ó³»­ (Brigham & Women's Hospital - Harvard Medical School) The institution of Dr. Daffner has received research support from Azheimer's Association. The institution of Dr. Daffner has received research support from FUJIFILM.