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Intense exercise increases circulating endocannabinoid and BDNF levels in humans--possible implications for reward
E Heyman1, F-X Gamelin, M Goekint
1Univ Lille Nord de France, EA4488 'Activité physique, Muscle, Santé', F-59000 Lille, France. elsa.heyman@univ-lille2.fr
Psychoneuroendocrinology
|October 28, 2011
Summary
Exercise boosts anandamide (AEA) and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) levels, potentially explaining its antidepressant effects. Increased AEA during exercise may drive BDNF elevation, linking the endocannabinoid system to exercise-induced neuroplasticity.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Exercise Physiology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The endocannabinoid system (ECS) influences mood and neurotrophins like BDNF.
- BDNF is crucial for exercise-induced brain plasticity and has antidepressant properties.
- The ECS may mediate the antidepressant effects of exercise via BDNF signaling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of intense exercise on plasma endocannabinoids (anandamide, AEA; 2-arachidonoylglycerol, 2-AG) and serum BDNF levels in humans.
- To explore the correlation between AEA, 2-AG, and BDNF during and after exercise.
- To examine the potential role of cortisol in exercise-induced AEA production.
Main Methods:
- 11 healthy trained male cyclists completed a graded exercise protocol (60 min at 55% W(max) followed by 30 min at 75% W(max)).
- Plasma levels of AEA and 2-AG were measured.
- Serum BDNF levels were measured.
- Cortisol levels were also assessed.
Main Results:
- Anandamide (AEA) levels significantly increased during exercise and recovery (P<0.001), while 2-AG remained stable.
- Serum BDNF levels increased during exercise and decreased during recovery (P<0.01).
- AEA and BDNF concentrations were positively correlated post-exercise and during recovery (r>0.66, P<0.05).
- Positive correlations were observed between AEA and cortisol levels.
Conclusions:
- Acute exercise increases peripheral AEA levels in humans, acting as a physiological stressor.
- Increased AEA during exercise may contribute to elevated BDNF levels, suggesting a link between the ECS and exercise-induced neuroplasticity.
- AEA may play a role in the antidepressant effects of exercise by influencing BDNF levels.
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