Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 15, 2026

Real-Time Electrocardiogram Monitoring During Treadmill Training in Mice
Published on: May 5, 2022
Role of Exercise in Modulating the Brain-Heart Axis in Cardiovascular Diseases
Wenyan Bo1, Qingxiang Guo1, Yixuan Ma2
1Institute of Physical Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China.
Abstract:
Regular exercise is a cornerstone of the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), yet the mechanisms underlying its cardioprotective effects remain incompletely understood. Emerging evidence indicates that dysfunction of the brain-heart axis is closely involved in the onset and progression of CVDs, whereas exercise may exert cardiovascular protection, at least in part, by modulating this bidirectional regulatory network. This review summarizes the pathophysiological significance of brain-heart axis dysregulation in CVDs and systematically discusses the potential mechanisms through which exercise regulates this axis to alleviate CVDs. We further examine how exercise prescription-related variables may differentially influence brain-heart axis regulation and address the potential risks associated with excessive exercise. Finally, we highlight future directions for translating these mechanistic insights into precision exercise medicine. Overall, this review provides an updated framework for understanding how exercise modulates the brain-heart axis in CVDs and offers new perspectives for their prevention and treatment.
Related Concept Videos
Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
Pathophysiology of Cardiac Performance
Exercise and Cardiac Output
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be...
Regulation of Heart Rates
The SNS increases heart rate through the release of norepinephrine and epinephrine, which act on beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart. This action increases the rate of depolarization in the sinoatrial (SA) node, the heart's...
Heart Failure Drugs: Inhibitors of Renin-Angiotensin System
Regulation of the Cardiovascular System
The regulation of the cardiovascular system involves the autonomic nervous system (ANS), baroreceptors, and chemoreceptors, ensuring that heart rate and blood pressure are appropriately modulated in response to varying physiological demands.
The ANS comprises two main divisions: the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. The sympathetic nervous system enhances...

