New clues point towards how exercise reduces symptoms of depression

A mechanistic pathway for depression which is modulated by physical activity. Credit: Translational Psychiatry (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02922-y The processes in the brain and body through which physical exercise reduces depressive symptoms have been explored by UCL researchers. Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide and is associated with disruptions to several brain and psychological processes, including impaired learning and memory. Physical activity, especially aerobic exercise, has been found to reduce depressive symptoms, but until now the processes behind this have been poorly understood. In a new review article published in Translational Psychiatry, researchers propose a novel hypothesis to understand Read More