In contrast, researchers have observed mood disorders in patients with lower concentrations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor.
Increased levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor have also been shown to sharpen cognitive performance and to help reduce anxiety and depression.
Research shows that one of the key ways these changes occur in response to exercise is through increased levels of a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor.
This complements studies in mammals where brain-derived neurotrophic factor is known to increase neuronal spine density.
Studies in people have found a strong relationship between concentrations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor circulating in the brain and an increase in the size of the hippocampus, the brain region responsible for learning and memory.