Brain Energy Reserve Expansion refers to the physiological strategy of increasing the capacity of the central nervous system to store or rapidly mobilize non-glucose energy substrates, such as ketone bodies and lactate, for use by neurons. This enhancement provides a crucial buffer against metabolic stress, hypoglycemia, or periods of high cognitive demand, supporting sustained neural activity. Achieving this expansion is a key objective in optimizing neuro-metabolic health and resilience against age-related cognitive decline. It represents a vital adaptive capacity of the brain.
Origin
This concept arises from the intersection of neuroscience, metabolic physiology, and nutritional science, particularly research into ketogenic diets and fasting. The brain, historically viewed as an obligate glucose consumer, is now understood to be highly adaptable in its fuel utilization. The term signifies a shift in therapeutic focus toward leveraging the brain’s inherent metabolic flexibility to enhance its functional capacity and protect against energetic deficits.
Mechanism
The expansion is primarily mediated by upregulation of transport mechanisms, specifically monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) across the blood-brain barrier and within glial cells, facilitating the uptake of ketone bodies and lactate. Furthermore, changes in mitochondrial biogenesis and the expression of enzymes involved in ketone and fatty acid oxidation within astrocytes and neurons contribute to this expanded metabolic repertoire. Hormonal signals, such as thyroid hormones and insulin-like growth factor, can also indirectly influence this adaptive response.
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