Acute cardiovascular exercise and circulating neurotrophic factors in humans: A systematic review and meta-analysis of mechanisms and methodological moderators.
Brain ResJun 11, 2026 (epub)
David Moreau, Breyten T Chapple-De Lange
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of acute cardiovascular exercise on circulating neurotrophic factors in healthy adults. It included 22 studies with 628 participants and found a moderate, statistically significant increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels post-exercise (pooled Hedges' g = 0.48, p < 0.001), particularly after moderate-to-vigorous intensity exercise.
Key findings
- Acute exercise led to a moderate increase in BDNF levels (pooled Hedges' g = 0.48, p < 0.001).
- Higher exercise intensity and immediate post-exercise sampling were associated with larger BDNF increases.
- Evidence for VEGF and IGF-1 was limited and inconsistent, preventing pooling.
- Key moderators included exercise intensity, biological sample type, and sampling timing.
Why it matters
Understanding the relationship between exercise and neurotrophic factors like BDNF can inform strategies to enhance brain health and plasticity. This knowledge is crucial for developing exercise interventions aimed at improving cognitive function and mental health.