Daily heart rate variability biofeedback practice sessions affect plasma Αβ40 and Αβ42 levels in healthy younger and older adults: A randomized clinical trial (N = 108)

Background Genetic mutations affecting β-amyloid (Αβ) production suggest that decreasing Αβ levels in healthy adults could prevent AD. However, evidence for behavioral interventions decrease is lacking. The current study examined whether heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback affects plasma levels. This intervention involves breathing slowly at a pace maximizes the amplitude of oscillations. During slow paced breathing, vagus nerve receives strong signals from stretch receptors blood vessels and lungs. These afferent stimulate ascending signaling activate ‘safety’ pathways, suppressing stress arousal pathways brain body. Experiencing adversity increases Aβ risk We hypothesized that, adults, daily sessions involving during HRV by these adversity-related processes. Method Healthy (N = 54 age 18-35; N 55-80) practiced five weeks. They were randomized to use increase oscillations (Osc+ condition) or personalized strategies try (Osc- condition). Pre- post-intervention Aβ40 Aβ42 quantified blind condition. Gene expression analysis peripheral samples younger using bioinformatics-based analyses genome-wide RNA profiles activity pro-inflammatory, neuroendocrine, antiviral transcription control relevant conserved transcriptional response (CTRA). predicted reductions CTRA across 5-week trial would be associated with reduced Aβ. Result Both older showed significant differences between Osc+ Osc- conditions change (Figure 1). condition decreased while increased Αβ. Individual changes pre- direction. Conclusion effects are genes upregulated adversity. Future longer-term studies should test reducing via reduces developing