The effect of combined training (core stability, resistance and balance) on serum BDNF and GDNF levels in individuals with multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease associated with neurodegeneration and impaired neurotrophic support. Neuromuscular training, through integrated activation of the nervous and muscular systems, may positively influence these neurotrophic factors. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of combined training on serum BDNF and GDNF levels in individuals with multiple sclerosis. Thirty women with multiple sclerosis (mean age: 36.2±5.8 years; BMI: 22.1±4.2 kg/m²) were purposively selected and randomly assigned to an experimental group (n=15) or a control group (n=15). The experimental group completed an eight-week combined training program (three sessions per week), consisting of core stability, resistance, balance, and agility exercises with progressive overload, while exercise intensity was controlled using the Borg perceived exertion scale., while the control group continued their usual daily activities. Blood samples were collected 24 hours before and 48 hours after the final training session, and the obtained serum was used to measure BDNF and GDNF levels. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance with a significance level of 0.05, employing SPSS software (version 27). The results demonstrated that neuromuscular training induced significant increases in serum BDNF (p=0.001, η²=0.80) and GDNF (p=0.001, η²=0.79) levels in the experimental group compared with the control group. Overall, the results of this study demonstrate that eight weeks of neuromuscular training elicit significant increases in serum BDNF and GDNF levels in women with multiple sclerosis. These findings indicate an enhanced neurotrophic environment that may support neural plasticity and neuroprotective mechanisms. Accordingly, neuromuscular training appears to be a safe and effective non-pharmacological strategy for improving neural health and potentially attenuating neurological dysfunctions associated with multiple sclerosis.