Physical Activity Modulates Common Neuroplasticity Substrates in Major Depressive and Bipolar Disorder

Neural Plast. 2017:2017:7014146. doi: 10.1155/2017/7014146. Epub 2017 Apr 26.

Abstract

Mood disorders (MDs) are chronic, recurrent mental diseases that affect millions of individuals worldwide. Although the biogenic amine model has provided some clinical utility, a need remains to better understand the interrelated mechanisms that contribute to neuroplasticity deficits in MDs and the means by which various therapeutics mitigate them. Of those therapeutics being investigated, physical activity (PA) has shown clear and consistent promise. Accordingly, the aims of this review are to (1) explicate key modulators, processes, and interactions that impinge upon multiple susceptibility points to effectuate neuroplasticity deficits in MDs; (2) explore the putative mechanisms by which PA mitigates these features; (3) review protocols used to induce the positive effects of PA in MDs; and (4) highlight implications for clinicians and researchers.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bipolar Disorder / physiopathology*
  • Bipolar Disorder / therapy*
  • Brain / physiopathology*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / physiopathology*
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / therapy*
  • Epigenesis, Genetic
  • Exercise Therapy / methods*
  • Exercise*
  • Humans
  • Inflammation
  • Neurogenesis
  • Neuronal Plasticity*
  • Synapses / physiology