Is exercise the newest way to re-tune brain structure in mice with autism spectrum disorder?

Researchers from the University of Tokyo (Japan) have determined a possible way to reduce excess synapses within the hippocampus of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) mice through exercise. The most defining feature of ASD brains is surplus neuronal connections and multiple behavioral defects. The results, which have been published in Cell Press, indicate a significant decrease in inactive synapses present in ASD mice after 30 days of ‘voluntary exercise.’ According to Ryuta Koyama, who led the research, "Voluntary exercise can be a safe, drug-free way to improve overall health and now we have a better understanding of how exercise can positively...