The impact of resistance training on brain-derived neurotrophic factor and depression among older adults aged 60 years or older: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the impact of resistance training on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and depression among older adults aged 60 years or older. METHOD: Four electronic databases were systematically searched. RESULTS: A total of 11 randomized controlled trials, with a pooled sample of 868 participants, met our inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis demonstrated that resistance training significantly improved circulating BDNF levels (mean difference; MD: 0.73 ng/ml; 95% CI [0.04, 1.42]; p = 0.04). Additionally, resistance training was associated with significant improvements in depression (standardized mean difference; SMD: -0.38; 95% CI [- 0.62, -0.14]; p = 0.002). DISCUSSION: These findings suggest that resistance training may be an effective intervention for improving BDNF levels and reducing depression symptoms in older adults. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and to investigate the underlying mechanisms.