Isolated Resistance Training Effects on BDNF Levels in Individuals with MS
A meta-analysis of four studies involving 126 participants with MS suggested that isolated resistance training may increase serum BDNF levels, showing a positive pooled effect (SMD = 0.49; p < 0.005). However, the certainty of this evidence is low due to risks of bias and the small number of studies.
- Tags
- #MSResearch
- Most relevant to
- —
- Human efficacy
- Not established from this source
- Mechanism
- Not reported
- Evidence strength
- Moderate
- Outcome
- Positive
Why it matters
This research provides insight into potential biological mechanisms that might be influenced by resistance training in MS, possibly affecting neuroplasticity and brain health.
What this does not prove
The findings should be interpreted with caution due to low overall certainty, risk of bias, inconsistency, and imprecision in the limited studies analyzed.
Next milestone
No next milestone was established from the available source.
Study facts
- Study design
- Meta-analysis
- Participants / samples
- 126 · basis not reported
- Randomised
- Yes
- Controlled
- Yes
- Primary endpoint met
- Not reported
- Relevant MS type
- Not reported
- Publication date
- 2026-10-27
- Evidence reviewed
- Abstract only
- Regulatory approval
- Not reported
- Research areas
- Not classified
- Biological target
- Not reported
- Pathway
- Not reported
- Population
- individuals with MS
- Size of effect
- Not reported
- Secondary endpoints
- Not reported
- MRI endpoints
- Not reported
- Biomarkers
- serum BDNF
- Safety
- Not reported
Original sources
- Primary evidenceIs resistance training effective to increase BDNF in multiple sclerosis? An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of isolated interventions. ↗DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0359019
Supporting passages (13)
publication datePublication date: 2026-10-27
subjectsMeSH terms: Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor; Humans; Multiple Sclerosis; Resistance Training
sample sizetotaling 126 participants with MS, were included.
randomizedFour studies (three RCTs and one controlled non-randomized trial)
controlledFour studies (three RCTs and one controlled non-randomized trial)
interventionOBJECTIVE: To systematically review and meta-analyze the effects of isolated RT on peripheral BDNF levels in individuals with MS (PROSPERO: CRD420251141069).
findingsMeta-analytic synthesis revealed positive pooled effects (SMD = 0.49; 95%CI: 0.15 to 0.83; Z = 2.80; p < 0.005; I2 = 0%; Q = 1.681) with wide confidence intervals without crossing zero.
populationindividuals with MS
biomarkerssignificant increases in serum BDNF after 8 weeks.
outcomeIsolated RT may increase peripheral BDNF levels in individuals with MS, but this effect is supported by limited and low-certainty evidence.
limitationsTitle: Is resistance training effective to increase BDNF in multiple sclerosis? An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of isolated interventions.
peer reviewedPublication types: Journal Article; Systematic Review; Meta-Analysis
study designPublication types: Journal Article; Systematic Review; Meta-Analysis
AI assessment, not yet reviewed by a person · version 1 · Community votes are separate from evidence review.