Exercise improves depression through positive modulation of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). A review based on 100 manuscripts over 20 years
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Author
Jemni, Monèm
Zaman, Rashid
Carrick, Frederick
Clarke, Neil
Marina, Michel
Bottoms, Lindsay
Mathharoo, Jagdeep
Ramsbottom, Roger
Gu, Yaodong
Konukman, Ferman
Attention
2299/26499
Abstract
The aim of this review was to explore the relevant neurobiology and the association between peripheral levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and acute and short to long-term exercise regimes, as well as its relation to depression and antidepressant treatment. A 20-years literature search was conducted. The screening process resulted in 100 manuscripts. Antidepressants as well as acute exercise, particularly high-intensity, elevates BDNF in healthy humans and clinical populations, as evidenced from aerobic and resistance-based studies. Although exercise is increasingly recognised in the management of depression, acute and short-term exercise studies have failed to establish a relationship between the severity of depression and changes in peripheral BDNF. The latter rapidly returns to baseline, possibly indicating a quick re-uptake by the brain, aiding its neuroplasticity functions. The timescale of administration needed for the antidepressants to stimulate biochemical changes is longer than similar increases with acute exercise.