It is empirically verified that physical activity can have a positive effect on cognitive
function even in individuals with mild cognitive impairment. There may be a number of reasons
why this is the case. Recently, research investigating the relationship between the secretion
of certain myokines and their neuroprotective effects has gained importance. One of these
myokines is irisin, which has recently been shown to have beneficial effects on the CNS by
upregulating the expression of Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus in
an animal model. Increased irisin levels as a consequence of exercise have recently been
partially demonstrated in humans. What type of physical activity is most effective in terms
of its effect on cognitive function in humans is another important scientific challenge. The
possibility of influencing endocrine secretion of bioactive substances with proven effects on
synaptic plasticity, neurogenesis and neuroprotection through effective therapies may help to
combat neurodegenerative diseases, the prevalence of which is increasing with the average age
of the population. According to Alzheimer's Disease International, 50 million people
worldwide were affected by some form of neurodegenerative disease in 2017. The number of
people affected is still rising. It is predicted that this number will reach 75 million
sufferers by 2030 (https://www.alz.co.uk/research/statistics). Alzheimer's disease and
multiple sclerosis are the two most common manifestations of neurodegenerative diseases. The
effect of therapy with dance and movement and the effect of Tai Chi on blood irisin levels in
the context of cognitive function and physical performance levels, has not yet been
conclusively demonstrated. The aim of this project is to estimate the effects of therapy with
dance and movement and Tai Chi on irisin plasma levels, a myokine with proven neuroprotective
effects, in the context of baseline levels of cognitive function and physical performance in
seniors over 65 years of age.
Implementation of the project: the following personal data will be collected at the
Consultation Room for Memory Disorders, AD Centrum Fakultní at the Královské Vinohrady
Hospital (PPP AD FNKV): age, weight, height, sex, education, a brief medical history will be
taken, current illness and current treatment will be determined, and a basic pharmacological
and toxicological history will be taken. The probands who will be admitted to the
experimental part of the project, based on the initial screening at the PPP AD FNKV, will
have their cognitive function tested and 9 ml of venous blood drawn before and after the
intervention at the PPP AD FNKV, and strength and physical performance tested at the UK FTVS.
Thereafter, probands will be randomized to either the intervention groups or the control
group. This randomized controlled trial will compare the effects of a movement and dance
therapy based on Bartenieff fundamentals and the other type of intervention will be
implemented as Tai Chi exercises. Both types of exercises are designed to place a greater
emphasis on body perception, so that there is a connection between musculoskeletal
coordination and movement in conjunction with an emotional experience focused on the ability
to perceive bodily signals. This approach will activate cognitive functions more. The
experimental part will be carried out with a time intensity of twice a week (90 min) for 12
weeks - all in two phases 09-2021 to 12-2021 and 09-2022 to 12-2022. The control group will
be implemented on the principle of wait-list control group.
Characteristics of research participants: Based on the power analysis, we expect to recruit
approximately 90 participants (age ≥ 65 - ≤ 80 years) from outpatients of the PPP AD FNKV and
U3V UK FTVS participants, or other interested persons from Prague 6.
Individuals with advanced cognitive impairment, regular use of medications affecting
cognitive performance, antidepressants, anxiolytics, and individuals with uncorrected
hypertension and ischemic heart disease, acutee (especially infectious) disease,
musculoskeletal disorders and chronic diseases limiting physical activity, as well as
individuals in recovery after illness or injury cannot take part in the study.
Ethical aspects of research: The research will be conducted on seniors who will be enrolled
in the research on the basis of voluntary informed consent. Since movement therapy has no
negative side effects, it is an ethically conflict-free research from this perspective. On
the other hand, a great benefit to society can be expected, in particular the development of
a suitable exercise regimen that will be applicable to other age groups. Since the elderly
are a specific and relatively easy to influence group, they will be adequately informed about
the purpose of the research, and the benefits of the research for them and for the elderly
population as a whole will be explained. Before signing the informed consent, the clarity and
understanding of the information provided will be carefully checked.