Discussion
hippocampal head volume, dementia
STILL
This is the first exercise RCT in older adults examining metabolites in the hippocampus, a region considered highly modifiable by training and physical activity and a key structure in dementia. Opposed to our predictions, the CG had a higher NAA/Cr in the hippocampal body than the SEG after 3 years of intervention. Likewise, neither change in VOThe CG and SEG were well-matched at baseline, and both trained according to their specification with the SEG exercising at a higher intensity as intended. Still, the CG had a significantly higher level of NAA/Cr in the hippocampal body compared to the SEG. NAA/Cr is considered a marker of neuronal viability as it is located to neuronal mitochondria which are enriched in the synapses [There was no relationship between change in VOAll significant findings related to effects of exercising on hippocampal metabolites were uncovered in the hippocampal body only, but not its head. The hippocampal head volume has previously been suggested as linked to higher levels of cardiorespiratory fitness [Higher psychological distress, as measured with HADS, was associated with lower NAA/Cr in the hippocampal body across both groups. As can be seen in Fig. The lower NAA/Cr level uncovered in the SEG group could have cognitive implications [Medial temporal lobe NAA/Cr has been suggested as a potential marker of dementia [