Mind-body medicine epigenetic technique (MET), cognitive flexibility, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene expression.

Abstract

172 Background: This is a pilot study update on the potential of MET to up-regulate BDNF gene expression with breast cancer patients assessed with high cognitive flexibility. MET is a technique developed to manage chronic stress and anxiety. BDNF gene expression is associated with learning and memory. Cognitively flexibility is defined as the ability to focus and sustain attention. It also implies vivid imagination and holistic thinking. Methods: The selection process for the study participants was nonrandom. The following was the eligibility criteria. 1. Inclusion Criteria: Breast Cancer, Stages II, III 2. Exclusion Criteria: Cognitively impaired, weak or ill. The study utilized two groups. Each group was assigned two research participants. Group One received one session of MET. Group Two received two sessions of MET. Each MET session was approximately 25-35 minutes in duration. Blood samples were taken at baseline and post-MET sessions to provide evidence in gene expression changes. For Group Two, the post-MET session blood draw was done 7 days after baseline. 1. Primary Endpoint: To determine whether MET can up-regulate BDNF gene expression. 2. Secondary Endpoint:To determine whether there is a correlation between up-regulated BDNF gene expression and cognitive flexibility. The blood samples were sent to genomics labs at the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles and the University of Nevada Las Vegas for mRNA extraction and microarray analysis. The gene expression was measured by DNA microarray results using the “PrimeView gene chip” and “Partek Genomics Suite” statistical software. Results: One participant from Group 1 evidenced a biologically significant up-regulation of BDNF gene expression. This participant was assessed with high cognitive flexibility. One major limitation of these findings is the statistical insignificance of the results due to the small number of participants. Conclusions: This pilot study evidenced the up-regulation of BDNF gene expression potentially due to MET and provided evidence for the potential correlation of BDNF gene expression and cognitive flexibility. This study also provided a foundation for a larger study with more participants.