Does increasing neuroplasticity, through the action of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), promote neural growth, connection formation, and neurogenesis?

From the Guidelines

Increasing neuroplasticity through the action of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is crucial for promoting neural growth, connection formation, and neurogenesis, and can be achieved through a combination of lifestyle modifications and specific activities, as supported by recent studies 1.

Key Recommendations

• Regular aerobic exercise, such as 30 minutes of daily walking, can increase BDNF production, which is essential for neural growth and repair 1.
• Adequate sleep, ranging from 7-9 hours nightly, is vital for memory consolidation and neural pathway formation.
• Mental stimulation through learning new skills, solving puzzles, or studying new languages can challenge the brain to form new connections.
• A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and a Mediterranean-style diet can provide the necessary nutrients for neural health.
• Stress management techniques, such as meditation or mindfulness practice, can help reduce cortisol levels that may inhibit neuroplasticity.

Mechanisms of Action

• BDNF plays a key role in promoting neurogenesis, the creation of new neurons, and enhancing neuroplasticity, allowing the brain to adapt, learn, and recover more effectively throughout life 1.
• Electroacupuncture has been shown to promote the expression of BDNF and other neurotrophic factors, leading to improved neurological outcomes in patients with ischemic stroke 1.
• Exosomal miR-146b has been identified as an important neuromodulator of neurogenesis, promoting endogenous neural stem cell differentiation into neurons in peri-ischemia after stroke 1.

Clinical Implications

• Healthcare providers should recommend a multi-faceted approach to increasing neuroplasticity, incorporating lifestyle modifications and specific activities, to promote neural growth and repair.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action and to develop targeted therapies for promoting neuroplasticity and neural growth.
• The use of electroacupuncture and other alternative therapies may be considered as adjunctive treatments for patients with neurological disorders, such as ischemic stroke, to promote neurogenesis and improve outcomes 1.

From the Research

Neuroplasticity and Neural Growth

• Increasing neuroplasticity through the action of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) has been shown to promote neural growth, connection formation, and neurogenesis 2, 3, 4, 5.
• Studies have found that physical exercise, in particular, can increase BDNF levels, leading to improved neuroplasticity and cognitive function 3, 4, 5.
• The effects of exercise on neuroplasticity have been observed in both human and animal models, with improvements in learning and memory also noted 4, 5.

Mechanisms of Neuroplasticity

• Neuroplasticity encompasses a range of mechanisms, including changes in synaptic strength and connectivity, the formation of new synapses, alterations in the structure and function of neurons, and the generation of new neurons 6.
• BDNF has been identified as a key neurotrophin involved in neuroplasticity, with its release triggered by physical exercise 3, 4.
• Other mechanisms, such as angiogenesis and the release of other neurotrophins, have also been implicated in the beneficial effects of exercise on neuroplasticity 5.

Lifestyle Interventions and Neuroplasticity

• Lifestyle interventions, including diet and exercise, have been shown to promote neuroplasticity and mitigate age-related neurodegenerative processes 2, 6.
• A diet rich in curcumin and other antioxidants, as well as caloric restriction, has been found to influence brain plasticity and prevent decline in memory 2.
• Exercise, in particular, has been identified as a fundamental therapeutic strategy for promoting neuroplasticity and repairing or delaying neurological dysfunctions 3.