Factors influencing brain recovery from stroke via possible epigenetic changes

Aim: To examine epigenetic changes leading to functional repair after damage to the central motor system. Data sources: A literature search was conducted using medical and health science electronic databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus) up to July 2023. Study selection: Data were summarized for type of intervention, study design, findings including human and animal studies. Data extraction: Data were extracted and double-checked independently for methodological quality. By means of the influence of environmental (calorie restriction or physical exercise) and other factors, epigenetic instructions were found to increase levels of BDNF and enhance synaptic neurotransmission, possibly leading to larger scale changes in structural and functional assets, which may end up to cognitive and motor repair after stroke. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY Recovery from stroke has a very high social cost. We explored in the literature what factors may influence stroke and its recovery. We found that several factors affect mechanisms of gene regulation. Some of them regards environmental interventions, like modifications in diet or programs of physical exercise. These may alter the production or degradation of proteins, modifying the cell function, in particular in neurons, leading to changes in cognition and behavior and modifying the path to recovery.