Is BDNF an underlying biological mechanism in exercise-induced cognition? Evidence, challenges, and prospects

doi:10.3724/SP.J.1042.2025.0465

Abstract

Abstract:

Exercise elevates the body’s levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is strongly associated with cognitive performance. This raises the question: Is BDNF a biological mechanism through which exercise enhances cognition? Based on biological mechanisms and experimental evidence from animal models and humans, it has been inferred that exercise may improve cognitive function by increasing BDNF levels in the body. However, some human studies have reported inconsistent findings, such as a failure of exercise to elicit a corresponding increase in BDNF or discrepancies between cognitive performance improvements after exercise and changes in BDNF levels. Notably, the conclusions of previous studies are often derived indirectly, and the time course of changes in BDNF and cognitive performance in response to exercise has not been thoroughly investigated. Furthermore, numerous factors influencing BDNF have diminished the accuracy and comparability of existing results, hindering the development of theories and the practical application of BDNF-related findings. To address these challenges, future studies should systematically collate and analyze relevant evidence while clarifying research themes. Rigorous mediation experiments and meta-analyses of mediation effects should be designed, with strict control over variables such as exercise protocols, participant populations, and measurement methods. Additionally, further refinement of tests for potential moderating effects is essential to validate the mediating role of BDNF in the cognitive enhancement effects of exercise. Investigating the quantitative relationships between exercise-induced BDNF changes and cognitive performance improvements, as well as the specific effects of BDNF on different dimensions of cognitive function, will provide valuable insights. This research will offer theoretical guidance and substantial contributions to the study of biological mechanisms underlying exercise-induced cognitive benefits, inspire new perspectives on exercise practices, and support the promotion of public health and the construction of a healthy society.

Key words: BDNF, exercise, cognition

CLC Number:

B845

GUO Yi, ZHANG Lian-cheng, TAO Ying-ying, ZHU Liang-hao, WANG Ting. Is BDNF an underlying biological mechanism in exercise-induced cognition? Evidence, challenges, and prospects[J]. Advances in Psychological Science, 2025, 33(3): 465-476.

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