Exercise training alters resting brain-derived neurotrophic factor concentration in older adults: A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials.

Farhad Gholami, Javad Mesrabadi, Mohadeseh Iranpour, Adel Donyaei

Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Physical Education, Shahrood University of Technology, Shahrood, Semnan, Iran. Electronic address: [email protected] of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Physical Education, Shahrood University of Technology, Shahrood, Semnan, Iran. Electronic address: [email protected]. · pubmed

Paper

Abstract

This systematic review with meta-analysis investigated the effects of exercise training on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in older adults. Electronic databases of PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus were searched for studies investigating the effect of exercise training ≥4 weeks on resting BDNF levels in older adults. A standardized mean difference (SMD) was generated through random effects model. Thirty-five randomized-controlled trials met the inclusion criteria. Exercise training significantly increased resting BDNF levels [SMD = 0.56 (95 % CI 0.28 to 0.85)] both in plasma (SMD = 0.63) and serum (SMD = 0.54). Regarding exercise modality, aerobic (SMD = 0.48), resistance (SMD = 0.76) and combined exercise training (SMD = 0.55) increased BDNF levels. Exercise training with the duration of 12 weeks (SMD =0.65), moderate-to-vigorous (SMD = 0.83) and vigorous intensity (SMD = 0.71), and 3-4 sessions per week frequency (SMD = 0.78) yielded the largest effects on BDNF elevation. Since BDNF represents a fundamental contribution in neuronal processes and is linked to brain health, exercise training may help delay aging-related neuro-degenerative processes. REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42024499195.

The following analysis is generated by AI and may contain errors. It is separate from the authors’ abstract and is not peer review.

Research summary

The paper investigates the effects of exercise training on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in older adults, which is relevant to understanding mechanisms that may influence brain health and potentially delay aging-related neurodegenerative processes. However, while the findings contribute to the understanding of exercise's role in promoting brain health, they do not directly address the root causes of aging or lifespan extension. The impact is solid but limited, as it primarily reinforces existing knowledge rather than providing groundbreaking insights.

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