Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) as a Marker of Physical Exercise or Activity Effectiveness in Fatigue, Pain, Depression, and Sleep Disturbances: A Scoping Review
<b>Background/Objectives</b>: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been investigated as a potential mechanistic marker or therapeutic target to manage symptoms such as fatigue, pain, depression, and sleep disturbances. However, the variability in BDNF response to exercise or phys...
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| Main Authors: | , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-01-01
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| Series: | Biomedicines |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9059/13/2/332 |
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| Summary: | <b>Background/Objectives</b>: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been investigated as a potential mechanistic marker or therapeutic target to manage symptoms such as fatigue, pain, depression, and sleep disturbances. However, the variability in BDNF response to exercise or physical activity (exercise/PA) and its clinical relevance in symptom management remains unclear. This scoping review assesses existing studies exploring the relationships between exercise/PA, symptoms, and BDNF levels, specifically focusing on fatigue, pain, depression, and sleep disturbances in adults. <b>Methods</b>: Relevant studies indexed in PubMed and CINAHL were identified. Using systematic review software, two reviewers independently screened and evaluated full texts, based on the following criteria: human studies reporting BDNF levels in adults, using exercise/PA interventions, assessing symptoms (pain, fatigue, depression, and/or sleep disturbance) as outcomes, and published in English. <b>Results</b>: Of 950 records, 35 records met the inclusion criteria. While exercise/PA is broadly supported for managing symptoms, 74.3% (n = 26) of studies reported increased BDNF levels, and only 40% (n = 14) showed significant increases following exercise/PA. Only 14% (n = 5) of studies demonstrated a significant relationship between changes in BDNF and symptoms. No significant differences in BDNF levels and symptoms were observed between different types of exercise (e.g., aerobic vs. strength vs. flexibility/stretching) and PA. <b>Conclusions</b>: The current literature provides insufficient evidence to confirm BDNF as a marker for exercise/PA effectiveness on symptoms. Further clinical investigations are needed to validate its potential as a therapeutic target. |
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| ISSN: | 2227-9059 |