Exercise, Neuroprotective Exerkines, and Parkinson's Disease: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Exercise Physiology
• Neurodegenerative Diseases

Background:

• Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder.
• Exercise is recognized for its neuroprotective effects in PD, with clinical studies confirming its disease-modifying capabilities.
• Various exercise types, including aerobic, resistance, neuromotor, and flexibility training, benefit motor and non-motor symptoms and quality of life in people with PD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical role of exercise in managing Parkinson's disease.
• To explore the function of exerkines, substances released during exercise, in neuroprotection.
• To provide an exercise template and strategies for people with Parkinson's (PwP) to overcome barriers to exercise.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on exercise, exerkines, and Parkinson's disease.
• Analysis of the neuroprotective mechanisms of exerkines in vitro and in vivo.
• Discussion of tailored exercise plans and barriers for people with Parkinson's.

Main Results:

• Exercise, particularly aerobic and resistance training, improves motor and non-motor symptoms in PD.
• Exerkines, released during exercise, demonstrate neuroprotective properties against PD pathology.
• Both aerobic and resistance exercise increase circulating exerkine levels.

Conclusions:

• Exercise and exerkines form a potent neuroprotective system for managing Parkinson's disease.
• This combined approach holds potential for slowing the chronic progression of PD.
• Personalized exercise regimens are essential for people with Parkinson's to maximize benefits.