The intergenerational effects of parental physical activity on offspring brain and neurocognition in humans: a scoping review

Abstract

Animal models suggest physical activity (PA) has intergenerational effects on brain health and neurocognition. This scoping review compiles the human literature in this area, identifies knowledge gaps, and makes recommendations for future research. We systematically searched for experimental or observational studies conducted in humans, published in English, and reporting parental PA exposure (preconception or prenatal) and subsequent offspring brain and neurocognition. Two reviewers independently screened studies according to predetermined inclusion criteria. Fourteen articles were included (four experimental and 10 observational). All studies reported maternal characteristics, whereas only one (7%) study reported paternal characteristics (but not paternal PA). Prenatal maternal PA exposure was examined in 10 (71%) studies, while preconception and prenatal PA exposure was examined in four (29%) studies. Maternal PA exposure was positively related to offspring brain and neurocognitive development in most studies. Little is known about the intergenerational effects of parental PA on offspring brain and neurocognition in humans, particularly paternal preconception PA. More experimental studies with longer offspring follow-up and more objective and/or mechanistic assessments are required.