Physical Activity and Rising Neurofilament Light Chain in Genetic Frontotemporal Degeneration—Diagnosis Is Not Destiny

Massimo and Cousins discuss physical activity and rising neurofilament light chain in genetic frontotemporal degeneration (FTD). FTD is a common cause of young-onset dementia that is characterized by progressive neurodegeneration in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. Up to 30% of FTD is familial, most commonly associated with variants in tau (MAPT), progranulin (GRN), or C9orf72 expansion. Despite a number of disease-modifying clinical trials for genetic FTD, a cure remains elusive. Given the lack of treatment for FTD, research on nonpharmacological strategies that can potentially slow disease is of great importance. Physical activity has been recognized as an important lifestyle factor that can modify brain aging and dementia, with few adverse reactions. Still, the majority of studies have focused on its beneficial effects in healthy aging and Alzheimer disease.