Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 Senior student of Sports Physiology and Health, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran
2 Associate Professor, Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran,
Abstract
This article systematically examines the impact of exercise on increasing levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its role in preventing dementia. BDNF is a vital protein for the survival, function, and synaptic plasticity of neurons. Studies have shown that exercise can serve as a non-pharmacological strategy to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. In this review, the relationship between exercise, BDNF, and dementia is analyzed based on existing evidence from human and animal studies, and potential mediating mechanisms, including the role of myokines and other circulating factors, are discussed. Research indicates that exercise, particularly aerobic training, can increase BDNF levels and thereby have a positive effect on brain health. At the same time, factors such as the intensity, duration, and type of exercise, as well as individual characteristics including genetics, influence the magnitude of the BDNF response. On the other hand, some findings regarding the direct relationship between exercise-induced increases in BDNF and improvements in cognitive performance have been contradictory, highlighting the need for more precise research to determine the definitive mechanisms of this effect. Despite methodological challenges, there is strong evidence supporting the protective effect of exercise against dementia. However, further research is necessary to optimize exercise interventions for dementia prevention. This article emphasizes the importance of developing standardized exercise programs and conducting longitudinal studies to clarify the molecular pathways and factors influencing this relationship.
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