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High-Intensity Aerobic Exercise Acutely Increases Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor
Ryan E Ross1,2, Michael E Saladin1, Mark S George2,3
1Department of Health Sciences and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC.
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|March 5, 2019
Summary
High-intensity aerobic exercise (AEx) can acutely increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and cortisol levels. Exercise intensity appears to directly influence the magnitude of these effects on the central nervous system.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Exercise Physiology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Aerobic exercise (AEx) shows antidepressant effects, but underlying neurobiological mechanisms are unclear.
- Reduced brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and elevated cortisol are linked to depression.
- BDNF and cortisol may be targets for AEx as an antidepressant treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of different AEx intensities on serum BDNF and cortisol.
- To compare these effects in individuals with and without depression.
Main Methods:
- 13 participants with depression and 13 controls underwent low-intensity (LO) and high-intensity (HI) cycling, or rest (CON).
- Blood samples were collected at baseline, immediately post-exercise, and up to 60 minutes post-exercise.
- Group, condition, and time differences in BDNF and cortisol were analyzed.
Main Results:
- No significant group differences in cortisol or BDNF were found.
- BDNF increased post-exercise in an intensity-dependent manner.
- Cortisol was elevated 15 minutes after HI AEx, with changes related to heart rate.
Conclusions:
- High-intensity AEx can cause acute, transient increases in BDNF and cortisol.
- These effects were observed in non-depressed and mildly to moderately depressed individuals.
- Exercise intensity may directly drive the magnitude of AEx's central nervous system effects.
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