Effect of acute and chronic physical exercise on seric of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in humans

Abstract

The beneficial effects of physical exercise on neuroplasticity have been attributed to enhanced brain neurotrophic factors such as BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor). BDNF was shown to promote and improve neuronal plasticity, retard neuron cell death, induce neural regeneration and stimulate neuronal survival. Since BDNF is readily crossing the blood-brain barrier in both directions, a substantial part of serum BDNF could be originated from neurons and glial cells. Thus, it can be assumed that peripheral circulating BDNF is transported into the brain and contributes to neuroplasticity. In this line, it is important to investigate whether increased BDNF could be observed after a physical training programs. Considering the influence of physical exercise on neuronal plasticity induced by neurotrophins, the aims of this study are: evaluate serum BDNF concentration in sedentary subjects after acute and chronic aerobic and strength physical exercise; evaluate differences in serum BDNF among athletes form different sport modalities. To this purpose, blood samples will be collected at rest and immediately after physical effort, before and after the physical training program. Serum BDNF concentrations were analyzed by enzyme immunoassay using ELISA kits by Chemicon, CA, USA. (AU)