A importância do volume do treino de força e a sua relação com a função cognitiva e estrutura cerebral em indivíduos com comprometimento cognitivo. O estudo Exercise4Brain

The Exercise4Brain study is a longitudinal randomized controlled trial (~ 2 years) that aims to compare the effects of different resistance training volume configurations on cognitive function and brain structure in cognitively impaired individuals. Specifically, the analyses of cognitive function will include parameters related to executive function, such as attention, construction, conceptualization, initiation/preservation, and memory [21]. On the other hand, the white matter hyperintensity volume will be the primary focus regarding brain structure due to its strong relationship with cognitive decline (i.e., the larger the white matter hyperintensity volume, the higher the association with cognitive decline and dementia) [22,23]. This longitudinal randomized controlled trial will explore a research gap within the scientific literature and give important insights regarding the resistance training volume (dose) required to preserve or improve cognitive function and induce favorable structural brain changes in cognitively impaired individuals. Furthermore, as no longitudinal study has explored the effects of different resistance training volumes on these outcomes, the Exercise4Brain study aims to present novel practical applications and guidelines for clinicians, exercise physiologists, and researchers regarding the most efficient approach to prescribe, manipulate, and progress volume over time. In addition to the primary aims, the Exercise4Brain study establishes secondary aims, including analyzing the effects of different resistance training volume configurations on white matter integrity, myelin content, functional connectivity, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (all biomarkers associated with cognitive function). Furthermore, biomarkers of oxidative stress (e.g., malondialdehyde), immunological response (e.g., interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin 10), liver function (e.g., lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase), and muscle function (e.g., creatine kinase) will be analyzed to address the intervention effects on these specific outcomes. Finally, we will explore the impact of the interventions on hemodynamic responses (blood pressure and heart rate), glycemic status (e.g., glycated hemoglobin), lipid profile (low and high-density lipoproteins, total cholesterol, triglycerides), and physical performance (e.g., short physical performance battery [SPPB], progressive loading test until one-repetition maximum [1RM] in the leg press, chest press, and lat pull-down, handgrip strength, 1-kg medicine ball throw, 10-m walking, and 6-minute walking test). The aims described here have never been analyzed in any longitudinal randomized controlled trial, namely in cognitively impaired individuals. Additionally, the interdisciplinary approach demonstrates a novel integration of concepts and approaches from different disciplines (i.e., Sport Sciences, Medicine, and Psychology). Overall, this represents a solid opportunity to advance knowledge in the field of cognitive health and exercise science with innovative approaches that have the potential to positively impact the academic, scientific, and civil society communities.