Physical activity for the promotion of cognitive functions: The role of the exercise-induced Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor in muscle-brain crosstalk

During physical activity, the contracting skeletal muscle acts as an endocrine organ for its ability to secrete molecules called myokines, mostly cytokines and growth factors, which modulate metabolic and cellular functions in different organs and tissues. Some of the most relevant for the brain include Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, Insulin-like growth factor-1, Interleukin-6, Irisin, cathepsin B, and vascular endothelial growth factor, which are involved in muscle-brain crosstalk. Brain- Derived Neurotrophic Factor improves cognitive functions by neurogenesis, and the increase of plasticity in the hippocampus region. This review aims to provide recent insights on the role played by physical activity and diet in ameliorating cognitive functions, focusing on the effects involving Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor.