Exercise training alters resting brain-derived neurotrophic factor concentration in older adults: A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials.
Level 1 - systematic review of randomized trials
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 35 randomized controlled trials
PubMed 39674562 · doi:10.1016/j.exger.2024.112658
What was done
Systematic review and random-effects meta-analysis (CRD42024499195) of database searches across PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus to evaluate the effects of exercise training lasting at least 4 weeks on resting brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in older adults. Thirty-five randomized controlled trials were included.
What was found
Exercise training significantly increased resting BDNF levels (SMD = 0.56, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.85), with increases observed in both plasma (SMD = 0.63) and serum (SMD = 0.54). By modality, BDNF increased with resistance training (SMD = 0.76), combined exercise (SMD = 0.55), and aerobic exercise (SMD = 0.48). The largest effect sizes were observed with 12-week durations (SMD = 0.65), moderate-to-vigorous intensity (SMD = 0.83), vigorous intensity (SMD = 0.71), and a training frequency of 3 to 4 sessions per week (SMD = 0.78).
Why it matters
This review aggregates randomized trial data showing that structured exercise reliably increases circulating basal BDNF in older adults, with resistance exercise and higher intensities producing the strongest peripheral responses.
Limits
The total participant count, participant health or cognitive status, risk of bias assessments, and statistical heterogeneity metrics are not reported in the abstract. Peripheral BDNF was measured, but direct relationships to central neuroplasticity or clinical cognitive outcomes were not assessed.
Cited by
- supports Exercise has been shown to increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).