Scientists discover a hidden brain “cleaning” effect triggered by movement
Scientists discover a hidden brain “cleaning” effect triggered by movement | ScienceDaily Science News from research organizations Scientists discover a hidden brain “cleaning” effect triggered by movement Just moving your body might quietly “rinse” your brain—and help keep it healthy. Date: May 1, 2026 Source: Penn State Summary: Scientists have uncovered a surprising link between simple body movement and brain health: every time you tighten your abdominal muscles—even slightly—your brain may gently sway inside your skull. This subtle motion, triggered by pressure changes in connected blood vessels, appears to help circulate cerebrospinal fluid around the brain, potentially flushing out harmful waste. Share: Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIN Email FULL STORY Using microCT scanning, which allows for high-resolution imaging of an organism's internal structures, and other imaging techniques, researchers found that a network of veins serve as a mechanical connection between the abdominal cavity and the brain. Here, the veins in red run through the interior of a vertebrae and around the spine. Credit: Penn State Scientists have discovered that the brain is more physically linked to the body than previously understood. In findings published April 27 in Nature Neuroscience , researchers used experiments in mice along with computer simulations to uncover a possible reason why physical activity supports brain health. The study shows that when abdominal muscles tighten, they press on blood vessels connected to the spinal cord and brain. This pressure causes the brain to shift slightly within the skull. That gentle motion appears to help cerebrospinal fluid move across the brain, which may carry away waste that can interfere with normal brain function. A Mechanical Link Between Movement and Brain Health Patrick Drew, a professor of engineering science and mechanics, neurosurgery, biology, and biomedical engineering at Penn State, said the findings build on earlier research
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