The Effect of Physical Exercise on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in Elderly: a Systematic Review of Experimental Studies

Abstract

The increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) along with physical exercise is thought to be one of the main reasons of the positive effect on the cognitive characteristics of elderly persons. The aim of this study is to systematically review the effects of physical exercise on BDNF in elderly people. The methodology of the electronic database survey was based on the preferred reporting clauses for systematic reviews. In this review, 21 full-text studies which have been evaluated in terms of the effects of physical exercise on BDNF in elderly people were reviewed. In most of the studies, there is serious evidence that physical exercise regulates BDNF levels in the elderly. Exercise can become a powerful prescription in combating cognitive diseases associated with neuromuscular disorders, and a sedentary lifestyle, if it can lead to the healing and regeneration of neural tissue through its effect on BDNF. (English) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]