Genetic Variation and Neuroplasticity: Role in Rehabilitation After Stroke.

Genetic Variation and Neuroplasticity: Role in Rehabilitation After Stroke. J Neurol Phys Ther. 2017 Jul;41 Suppl 3 Supplement, IV STEP Special Issue:S17-S23 Authors: Stewart JC, Cramer SC Abstract BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: In many neurologic diagnoses, significant interindividual variability exists in the outcomes of rehabilitation. One factor that may impact response to rehabilitation interventions is genetic variation. Genetic variation refers to the presence of differences in the DNA sequence among individuals in a population. Genetic polymorphisms are variations that occur relatively commonly and, while not disease-causing, can impact the function of biological systems. The purpose of this article is to describe genetic polymorphisms that may impact neuroplasticity, motor learning, and recovery after stroke. SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS: Genetic polymorphisms for brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), dopamine, and apolipoprotein E have been shown to impact neuroplasticity and motor learning. Rehabilitation interventions that rely on the molecular and cellular pathways of these factors may be impacted by the presence of the polymorphism. For example, it has been hypothesized that individuals with the BDNF polymorphism may show a decreased response to neuroplasticity-based interventions, decreased rate of learning, and overall less recovery after stroke. However, research to date has been limited and additional work is needed t...
Source: Physical Therapy - Category: Physiotherapy Authors: Tags: J Neurol Phys Ther Source Type: research