Effects of submaximal aerobic training and following detraining on serum BDNF level and memory function in midlife healthy untrained males

Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is an important factor affecting cognitive function which has recently interested a bulk trend of effort in the health context. In spite of a good body of evidence reported concern to positive association between aerobic fitness, cognitive function and serum BDNF, there is no enough information about the effect of aerobic training and also detraining period on memory function and circulatory BDNF in middle aged individuals. Twenty one middle aged males (age: 58.08±5.99, weight: 75.79±12.13 kg, BMI: 25.78±2.76 kg.m-2) randomized in two groups including aerobic exercise (Ex, n=11) and control (Con, N=10). Ex subjects participated in six weeks of endurance exercise sessions, 3 sessions/week by the intensity of 60-70% of HRR for 25 to 40 min in each min. Midterm and Short term memory tests were conducted and also blood samples were taken in three occasions including pretest, after six weeks of training and after the following six weeks of detraining period. Data were analyzed using independent t test, ANOVA and ANCOVA repeated measures. Six weeks of aerobic training in Ex group significantly increased basal serum BDNF level, and also short term and midterm memory function (P<0.05) which all were restored following to six weeks of detraining. Regular exercise training is capable to augment basal serum BDNF and though to improve memory function in healthy subjects, however, theses adaptations were washed up throughout detraining. From clinical point of view, these findings confirm the importance of aerobic fitness to improve and maintaine memory function and future dementia to be prevented.