In this episode, we explore the ins and outs of exercise and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is integral to memory, nerve growth, memory, learning, and memory; did we say that already? Our special guest this week is exercise physiology PhD candidate Greg Spicer whose dissertation focuses on exercise modalities and acute cardiovascular and neurological responses, including BDNF.

All content provided in ExPhysCast is to be considered as educational and speculation. Nothing discussed in ExPhysCast should be considered medical advice. If you have any medical questions, please speak to your primary care provider.

Papers discussed:

Arazi H, Babaei P, Moghimi M, Asadi A. Acute effects of strength and endurance exercise on serum BDNF and IGF-1 levels in older men. BMC Geriatrics, 2021;21(50):1-8.

Garcia-Suarez PC, Renetria I, Moncada-Jimenez J, Fry AC, Jimenez-Maldonado A. Acute systemic response of BDNF, lactate and cortisol to strenuous exercise modalities in healthy untrained women. Dose-Response: An International Journal, 2020;18(44).

Other recommended reading:

De Assis GG, de Almondes KM. Exercise-dependent BDNF as a modulatory factor for the executive processing of individuals in course of cognitive decline. A systematic review. Frontiers in Psychopathology, 2017;8:584.

Rozanska O, Uruska A, Zozulinska-Ziolkiewicz. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor and diabetes. Int J Mol Sci,. 2020;21(3):841.