Molecular Structure and Response of the Brain-Derived Neurotropic Factor (BDNF) to Exercise

Abstract

Context: Neurotrophins have been recognized as the main trophic factors in the nervous system. They are a broad family of polypeptide growth factors and the main factors responsible for the modulation of synaptic development. They share a common basic structure but in certain areas which connect to their specific receptors. Methods: This is a review of the literature over the past two decades through keyword searches of brain-derived neurotropic, physical activity, and the hippocampus in databases. Results: Thus, they execute different actions triggering survival or apoptosis pathways. It has been reported that brain considerably responds to exercise, which results in significant changes in anatomical, molecular, and cellular level of the body. Findings suggest that exercise and activity help maintain cognitive function and brain structure, especially due to aging. Brain plasticity that is controlled by BDNF can be the basis of the beneficial effects of exercise on the brain health. Conclusion: In Addition, exercise improves the survival of neurons and increases resistance to pathogenic diseases. This review examines different molecular effects of BDNF as well as the effect of different exercises on the expression of this factor.