Horm Metab Res 2009; 41(3): 250-254
DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1093322
Humans, Clinical

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Effects of Strength and Endurance Training on Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor and Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 in Humans

T. Schiffer 1 , S. Schulte 1 , W. Hollmann 2 , W. Bloch 2 , H. K. Strüder 1
  • 1Institute of Motor Control and Movement Technique, German Sport University, Cologne, Germany
  • 2Institute of Cardiology and Sports Medicine, German Sport University, Cologne, Germany
Further Information

Publication History

received 10.06.2008

accepted 16.09.2008

Publication Date:
29 October 2008 (online)

Abstract

Blood neurotrophins like insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are discussed to mediate health benefits of physical activity in humans. The aim of the study was to analyze the training effects of moderate endurance training (Em) and strength training with high loads (Sh) on blood plasma concentrations of IGF-1 and BDNF in humans. Venous blood samples were obtained from 27 healthy students, randomly assigned to an Em, Sh, and a control group, before and after a 12-week training intervention. Sh resulted in an increase in isometric (14.5%) and dynamic (8.3%) strength of the knee extensor muscles in the Sh group and Em led to a significant increase in the endurance performance in the Em group (p<0.05). IGF-1 basal plasma concentrations decreased (p<0.05) after the intervention in all groups. There were no significant changes for BDNF. Despite specific functional adaptations induced by Em and Sh there are no correspondingly different adaptations in the basal blood concentrations of the neurotrophins IGF-1 and BDNF. Additionally, exercise per se does not result in changes in basal plasma concentrations of BDNF, suggesting that the mode of the exercise programme is a decisive factor.

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Correspondence

Dr. T. Schiffer

Deutsche Sporthochschule Köln

Ambulanz für Sporttraumatologie und Gesundheitsberatung

Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6

50933 Cologne

Germany

Phone: +0221/4982 31 90

Fax: +0221/4982 31 90

Email: t.schiffer@dshs-koeln.de