Neurogenesis and Muscle describes the profound and bidirectional interrelationship between the creation of new neurons in the adult brain, a process termed neurogenesis, and the physiological state and functional activity of skeletal muscle tissue. This emerging area of research strongly suggests that the health and metabolic activity of the muscle system can directly and positively influence the brain’s capacity for structural plasticity and cognitive repair. This systemic connection highlights the muscle as a significant endocrine organ capable of releasing potent signaling molecules that cross the blood-brain barrier to impact cognitive function and mood regulation.
Origin
This concept is a modern development in the integrated fields of neuroscience and exercise physiology, challenging the older, long-held dogma that the adult brain was incapable of generating new neurons. The crucial link to “muscle” arises from the discovery and characterization of myokines, which are muscle-derived signaling molecules that exert systemic effects, including those on the central nervous system. It underscores the profound systemic connectivity between the peripheral and central nervous systems, moving beyond simple motor control.
Mechanism
The mechanism is largely mediated by specific myokines, most notably Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), which is synthesized and released by active muscle tissue, especially during and after intense exercise. BDNF and other key signaling molecules travel through the systemic circulation to the brain, where they actively promote the survival, differentiation, and integration of new neurons in the hippocampus, a region critically important for memory, learning, and emotion. Maintaining muscle health and engaging in regular, challenging physical activity are therefore potent, non-pharmacological means of supporting cognitive reserve and neuroplasticity.
We use cookies to personalize content and marketing, and to analyze our traffic. This helps us maintain the quality of our free resources. manage your preferences below.
Detailed Cookie Preferences
This helps support our free resources through personalized marketing efforts and promotions.
Analytics cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website, improving user experience and website performance.
Personalization cookies enable us to customize the content and features of our site based on your interactions, offering a more tailored experience.