The overall goal of observational study is to examine the age-related and habitual exercise training status-related differences in structural and functional changes in the human brain, detected by magnetic resonance (MR) imaging.
Normal aging reduces cerebral blood flow, brain volume, and cognitive function, thereby increasing the risk of dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Aging is associated with increased white matter hyperintensities (WMH) and appears to alter functional connectivity within the brain both of which associated with cognitive function (references). Observational studies suggest that regular physical activity is associated with improved cognitive function and higher cerebral blood flow 1,2. However, it is unknown if aging or exercise training status alters the structural and functional biomarkers that are predictive of cognitive decline. Thus, the overall goal of this project is to examine the age-related and exercise training status-related differences in structural and functional changes in the brain, detected by magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. 1. To determine if white matter hyperintensities on MRI scans of the brain are altered by aging and exercise training status. 2. To determine the interaction of aging and habitual physical activity on functional connectivity in the brain.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
71
Participants will undergo an MRI scan
Gymnasium-Natatorium
Madison, Wisconsin, United States
White Matter Hyperintensity Volume
Utilize an MRI to measure brain volume when participant is at rest
Time frame: 60 minutes
Default Mode Network Connectivity
Utilize an MRI to measure functional connectivity in the brain when participant is at rest
Time frame: 60 minutes
Middle Cerebral Artery Blood Flow Scan
Utilize an MRI to measure middle cerebral artery blood flow in the brain when the participant is at rest
Time frame: 60 minutes
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