Background/objective: Endurance exercise can improve memory function in persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS), but the effects on hippocampal functioning are currently unknown. We investigated the effects of a running intervention on memory and hippocampal functional connectivity in pwMS.
Methods/results: Memory and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data were collected in a running intervention (n = 15) and waitlist group (n = 14). Visuospatial memory improvement was correlated to increased connectivity between the hippocampus and the default-mode network (DMN) in the intervention group only.
Conclusion: As a result of endurance exercise, improvements in visuospatial memory may be mediated by a stronger functional embedding of the hippocampus in the DMN.
Keywords: Multiple sclerosis; cognitive rehabilitation; default-mode network; endurance exercise; functional connectivity; hippocampus.