Effects of computerized cognitive training on biomarker responses in older adults with mild cognitive impairment: A scoping review

• Published in: Health science reports 2024-06, Vol.7 (6), p.e2175-n/a
• Main Authors: Hayashi, Hiroshi, Sone, Toshimasa, Iokawa, Kazuaki, Sumigawa, Koshi, Fujita, Takaaki, Kawamata, Hironori, Asao, Akihiko, Kawasaki, Iori, Ogasawara, Maki, Kawakatsu, Shinobu
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: biomarker; Biomarkers; brain‐derived neurotrophic factor; Cognition & reasoning; computerized cognitive training; Electroencephalography; Epidemiology; functional near‐infrared spectroscopy; General Medicine; Genetics and Genomics; Immunology; Infectious Diseases; magnetic resonance imaging; mild cognitive impairment; Narrative Review; Neurology; Older people; Psychiatry; Virtual reality
• ISSN: 2398-8835; 2398-8835
• DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.2175

Background and Aims Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a widespread condition in older individuals, posing significant risk of dementia. However, limited research has been conducted to explore effective interventions and clarify their impact at the neural level. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of computerized cognitive training (CCT) and explore the associated neural mechanisms in preventing dementia in older individuals with MCI, with a view to inform future intervention efforts. Methods We reviewed the effects of CCT on biomarker outcomes in older adults with MCI. The search was conducted for studies published between 2010 and May 10, 2023, using three search engines: PubMed, Scopus, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature. The inclusion criteria were as follows: studies that involved participants diagnosed with MCI, included CCT, included quantitative assessment of biomarker results, and conducted randomized controlled trials. Results Sixteen studies that used biomarkers, including magnetic resonance imaging, electroencephalography (EEG), functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), and blood or salivary biomarkers, were extracted. The results showed that CCT caused changes in structure and function within the main brain network, including the default mode network, and decreased both theta rhythm activity on EEG and prefrontal activity on fNIRS, with improvement in cognitive function. Furthermore, CCT combined with physical exercise showed more significant structural and functional changes in extensive brain regions compared with CCT alone. Virtual reality‐based cognitive training improved not only executive function but also instrumental activities of daily living. Conclusion CCT causes functional and structural changes in extensive brain regions and improves cognitive function in older adults with MCI. Our findings highlight the potential of individualized intervention methods and biomarker assessment according to the specific causes of MCI. Future research should aim to optimize these personalized therapeutic strategies to maximize the benefits of CCT in older adults with MCI. Key points Computerized cognitive training (CCT) causes functional and structural changes in extensive brain regions in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), with improvement in cognitive function. The effect of CCT combined with physical exercise may be stronger and longer‐lasting than that of CCT alone. Virtual realit