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Accelerometer-Measured, Habitual Physical Activity and Circulating Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor: A
Nicole L Spartano1,2, Jayandra J Himali2,3,4,5,6, Ludovic Trinquart3
1Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition, and Weight Management, Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM), Boston, MA, USA.
Journal of Alzheimer'S Disease : JAD
|December 5, 2021
Summary
Higher physical activity (PA) does not chronically increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in middle-aged adults. In fact, vigorous PA may lower BDNF in smokers, contrary to acute exercise effects.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Exercise Physiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Physical activity (PA) is linked to brain health, potentially via neurotrophic factors like brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).
- Acute exercise bouts are known to transiently increase circulating BDNF levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between habitual, accelerometer-measured physical activity levels and circulating BDNF in a middle-aged cohort.
- To determine if long-term PA is associated with chronically elevated BDNF levels.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional analysis of 1,769 participants from the Framingham Heart Study Third Generation cohort.
- Multivariable regression used to relate accelerometer-measured PA variables (steps, MVPA, light activity, sedentary time) to serum BDNF levels.
- Adjustments made for age, sex, smoking status, platelet count, depression status, and accelerometer wear time.
Main Results:
- Most PA measures were not significantly related to BDNF levels.
- A non-linear trend showed 15-50 minutes/week of vigorous activity associated with lower BDNF compared to no vigorous activity.
- Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was associated with lower BDNF levels in current smokers.
Conclusions:
- Habitual physical activity is not chronically associated with elevated circulating BDNF in middle-aged adults.
- Higher PA may be associated with chronically suppressed BDNF in specific subgroups, such as smokers.
- Findings highlight the difference between acute and chronic effects of PA on BDNF.
