Background/Aims: Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a key neurotrophin due to its role in neuron process outgrowth, plasticity and neuronal survival. Aerobic exercise can induce BDNF release, thus has potential to facilitate post stroke recovery. This study aimed to determine if a program of moderate-to-high-intensity aerobic exercise increased concentrations of BDNF in sub-acute stroke compared to usual care.
Methods: People with stroke undergoing sub-acute rehabilitation were randomly allocated to usual care (control group) or usual care plus 8-week program of moderate-high intensity treadmill walking and self-management (3 x 30 min sessions per week) (experimental group). Circulating levels of BDNF were measured via serum samples analysed by an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) at baseline (Week 0), post intervention (Week 8), and at 6 months follow-up (Week 26).
Results: Sixty-seven participants (n=67) were recruited to the study with no difference in characteristics between groups (p>0.337). Linear mixed models showed a significant group x timepoint interaction (F=3.142, p = 0.048) across the three time points. From Week 0 to Week 8 BDNF levels in the experimental group increased by 18% (p = 0.02), then decreased from Week 8 to Week 26 by 18% (p = 0.02). The control group showed no change from Week 0 to Week 8 (p = 0.37), and no change from Week 8 to Week 26 (p = 0.41).
Conclusion: As concentrations of BDNF increased immediately after a program of moderate to high intensity aerobic exercise, this may present a potential mechanism to enhance recovery after stroke.