Brain-derived neurotrophic factor in blood increases transiently after single sessions of moderate intensity exercise in obese females

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the increase in serum BDNF levels after moderate-intensity exercise in obese females. This study used the True-Experimental method with the Randomized Control Group Pre-test-Post-test design. A total of 14 obese female adolescents aged 19-24 years participated in this study and were divided into two groups, i.e., the control group (CG, n=7) and the moderate-intensity exercise group (MIEG, n=7). The exercise was performed with an intensity of 64 – 76 HRmax for 40 minutes using a Richter Treadmill (4.0 HP DC). Moderate-intensity exercise was carried out in one intervention. Blood sampling was carried out before and after moderate-intensity exercise on the cubital vein as much as 3 ml. Examination of serum BDNF levels using the ELISA method.  The results of statistical analysis show that the mean pre-test serum BDNF levels were CG (258.66±27.11 pg/mL), MIEG (252.48±23.17 pg/mL), and (p=0.865). The mean post-test serum BDNF levels were CG (236.22±20.83 pg/mL), MIEG (497.73±59.55 pg/mL), and (p=0.001). The mean delta of serum BDNF levels on CG (-22.43±26.04), MIEG (245.25±61.57 pg/mL), and (p=0.002). Based on the study results, it is concluded that a single session of moderate-intensity exercise in the morning increases serum BDNF levels in obese females.