From the Guidelines
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a crucial role in brain health and function, supporting the survival of existing neurons and encouraging the growth and differentiation of new neurons and synapses, with its levels being influenced by various factors including electroacupuncture, as shown in a study by Chen et al. 1 where electroacupuncture increased BDNF levels.
Key Points
- BDNF is active in areas of the brain vital for learning, memory, and higher thinking, such as the hippocampus and cortex.
- Low levels of BDNF have been associated with various neurological and psychiatric conditions including depression, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease.
- Electroacupuncture has been shown to increase BDNF levels, promoting axonal regrowth and neurogenesis, as demonstrated in studies by Chen et al. 1 and Kim et al. 1.
- Environmental enrichment has also been found to increase BDNF levels, reducing neuroinflammation and promoting neuroprotection, as shown in a study by Neidl et al. 1.
Mechanisms
- BDNF supports the survival of existing neurons and encourages the growth and differentiation of new neurons and synapses.
- Electroacupuncture increases BDNF levels by promoting axonal regrowth and down-regulating the myelin-associated inhibitor-induced RhoA/ROCK pathway, as demonstrated in a study by Chen et al. 1.
- Environmental enrichment increases BDNF levels by reducing neuroinflammation and promoting neuroprotection, as shown in a study by Neidl et al. 1.
Lifestyle Modifications
- Regular physical exercise, adequate sleep, stress reduction, social connection, and a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and polyphenols can naturally increase BDNF levels.
- Electroacupuncture and environmental enrichment can also increase BDNF levels, potentially improving cognitive function, mood, and overall brain health.
Conclusion is not allowed, so the answer will be ended here.
From the Research
Role of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)
- BDNF is a neurotrophin that plays a crucial role in brain health, including the promotion of neurite growth, neuroprotection, and the modulation of neuronal activity 2.
- Exercise has been shown to increase circulating levels of BDNF, which may contribute to the improvement of cognitive function and brain plasticity 3, 4, 5.
- The mechanisms of BDNF release during exercise are not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the stimulation of brain plasticity and the promotion of neurotrophic factors 3.
- BDNF has been implicated in the treatment of various neurological disorders, including depression, where it may play a role in mediating the effects of exercise on symptom reduction 5.
- Nutritional interventions, such as dietary patterns, polyphenols, and omega-3 fatty acids, may also influence BDNF concentrations, although the evidence is not yet conclusive 6.
BDNF and Exercise
- Acute exercise has been shown to increase circulating levels of BDNF, which may contribute to improved cognitive function and brain plasticity 3, 4, 5.
- Long-term exercise training may also stimulate brain plasticity and improve brain function, although the relationship between exercise and BDNF is complex and influenced by various factors 3, 4.
BDNF and Neurological Disorders
- BDNF has been implicated in the treatment of various neurological disorders, including spinal cord injury, where it may promote axonal regeneration and plasticity 2.
- BDNF may also play a role in the treatment of depression, where it may mediate the effects of exercise on symptom reduction, although the evidence is not yet conclusive 5.