Study Overview:

• Publication Date: 2010
• Research Timeline: Studies conducted between 2000 and 2009

This systematic review examined the effects of exercise (acute aerobic, strength, or training interventions) on peripheral brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, a neurotrophin crucial for neuroplasticity and energy metabolism, in healthy individuals and those with chronic conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

The research aimed to explore the role of exercise in modulating BDNF levels, contributing to neuroplasticity, energy metabolism, and potential neuroprotection. It sought to clarify the relationship between exercise-induced changes in BDNF and its implications for treating and preventing neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases.

Participant Details:

• Population Studied:
  • Healthy adults and individuals with conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), major depressive disorder (MDD), or mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
  • Ages ranged from 20 to 70 years, with varied physical fitness levels (sedentary to highly trained).

Intervention and Methods:

• Exercise Protocols:
  • Acute Exercise: Graded exercise tests (GXT) for both aerobic and strength modalities, ranging in intensity from low to high.
  • Training Programs: Aerobic and strength training programs conducted over 5 to 24 weeks.
• BDNF Measurement: Peripheral BDNF levels were measured in plasma and serum before, immediately after, and 15–60 minutes post-exercise.

Key Findings:

• Acute Aerobic Exercise:
  • Most studies (69%) reported transient increases in BDNF levels post-exercise, with higher intensity exercises yielding greater effects.
  • Prolonged low-intensity exercises showed moderate effects on BDNF levels.
• Strength Exercise:
  • Acute strength exercise did not significantly increase BDNF levels.
  • However, after 5–10 weeks of training, BDNF response to acute strength exercises improved.
• Chronic Exercise (Training Programs):
  • Aerobic training showed modest improvements in basal BDNF levels over time.
  • Strength training had mixed effects, with limited evidence supporting significant long-term changes.

Implications and Importance:

This review highlights the potential of aerobic exercise as a tool to enhance neuroplasticity through transient increases in BDNF levels. The findings underscore the importance of exercise intensity and modality in designing interventions for neurological and metabolic health. Strength exercise may play a supplementary role by enhancing the BDNF response over time.

Takeaway Message:

Exercise, particularly high-intensity aerobic activity, is a promising strategy for boosting neuroplasticity and supporting brain health. While strength training’s direct effects on BDNF are less pronounced, it can enhance responsiveness over time, making it a valuable component of long-term fitness programs.

Reference for Further Reading:

Knaepen, K., Goekint, M., Heyman, E. M., & Meeusen, R. (2010). Neuroplasticity—Exercise-Induced Response of Peripheral Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor: A Systematic Review of Experimental Studies in Human Subjects. Sports Medicine, 40(9), 765–801. https://doi.org/10.2165/11534530-000000000-00000