The effects of different intensities of aerobic exercise for 8 weeks on neurogenesis, depression, and anxiety in young mice
- Author:
Mi Yang JEON
1
;
Quan Feng LIU
;
Chi Yang YOON
;
Bong Gyu KIM
;
Ji Hyun KIM
;
Ha Jin JEONG
;
Songhee JEON
Author Information
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Journal of Korean Biological Nursing Science 2025;27(2):213-223
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:This study aimed to assess the impact of aerobic exercise at different intensities over an eight-week period on the expression and activation of cortical synaptic proteins, with the potential to reduce anxiety and improve memory in young mice.
Methods:Seven-week-old C57BL/6 mice were subjected to treadmill exercises at low (n = 10), moderate (n = 10), and high intensity (n = 10) for eight weeks. Behavioral assessments were conducted to evaluate anxiety and cognitive function. To explore the underlying mechanisms, we measured the phosphorylated levels of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), cyclic adenosine monophosphate response-binding protein (CREB), protein kinase (AKT), adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK), synapsin (S9, S549, S609), and PSD-95 in the cortex, as these are associated with synaptic strength. Additionally, the expression of doublecortin (DCX), a neurogenic factor, was analyzed in the hippocampus.
Results:Exercise led to reductions in depressive and anxiety-related behaviors and elevated the levels of phosphorylated ERK, CREB, AKT, AMPK, synapsin (S9, S549, S609), and PSD-95 in the cortex of young mice. Furthermore, exercise increased DCX expression in the hippocampus. Moderate-intensity exercise yielded more pronounced effects than other intensities.
Conclusion:The findings of this research indicate that consistent moderate-intensity exercise increases synaptic strength and reduces depression and anxiety in young mice by activating multiple factors.
