Gene–Diet Interactions in Brain Aging and Neurodegenerative Disorders

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   Figure. Dietary restriction induces a mild cellular stress response in neurons as a result of its effects on energy availability and activity in neuronal circuits. Neurons respond to this stress by increasing the production of proteins that enhance cellular stress resistance; examples include neurotrophic factors, protein chaperones (such as heat-shock proteins), and antiapoptotic proteins (such as Bcl-2). A similar mechanism may stimulate neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity. Peripheral effects of dietary restriction may also benefit the brain. For example, enhanced insulin sensitivity and decreased homocysteine and cholesterol levels would be expected to prevent age-related damage to cerebral blood vessels and may also have more direct beneficial effects on neurons and glia. Working model for the mechanism by which dietary restriction can increase brain health.

• Copyright ©2004 by the American College of Physicians