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Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»­ of Queensland has launched a world-first clinical trial to determine the exact amount of exercise which can reverse the effects of ageing on the brain. 

The trial will monitor 300 people over 65 to determine the “sweet spot” – the amount, intensity, and type of exercise which leads to cognitive improvement in the ageing brain.

’s is leading the trial – a first for QBI’s

“After decades of research, we’re in a position to determine what exercise and how much exercise can keep our brains nimble,” Professor Bartlett said.

“This will be the most comprehensive analysis yet of why exercise is beneficial, identifying the underlying mechanisms in the body, and taking advantage of Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»­’s world-leading imaging and research capabilities.

“Ultimately, we would hope to have clear public health guidelines as to how exercise can both prevent and reverse dementia.”

The clinical trial is a collaboration with the and the and is funded by a $2.1 million donation from the Stafford Fox Medical Research Foundation.

“QBI researchers were the first to discover that the brain contains stem cells which are capable of making new neurons.  But we have also learned that as we age, these stem cells lose their ability to produce new neurons and our cognitive functions begin to decline,” Professor Bartlett said.

“Excitingly, exercise has been able to increase production of new brain cells and improve learning and memory.”

Researchers are now recruiting 300 healthy people aged 65-85 who are willing to be closely monitored as they exercise on Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»­ gym equipment three times a week for six months. 

Volunteers will have fitness tests, cognitive function testing, MRI scans and provide blood samples.

“We’ll also be measuring changes in the volume of participant’s brains, and in the brain’s connectivity – how regions of the brain communicate with one another – to better understand the process,” Professor Bartlett said.

To register for the clinical trial, contact Dr Mia Schaumberg,  07 3346 8770 or healthybrains@uq.edu.au  or visit: qbi.uq.edu.au/exercisestudy

Media: QBI Executive Communications Manager Kirsten MacGregor, k.macgregor@uq.edu.au 0448 108 441.