Objective:

To summarize the alterations of BDNF/TrkB signaling in Parkinson's disease and evaluate how exercise may influence this system.

Approach:

• Review of Literature: The review assesses existing literature on the effects of exercise on BDNF/TrkB signaling in Parkinson's disease, focusing on preclinical and clinical studies.

Key Findings:

• Exercise improves functional outcomes in Parkinson's disease and may engage biological processes related to neuroprotection and neuroplasticity.
• BDNF and TrkB signaling are critical for neuronal survival and synaptic plasticity, with exercise potentially enhancing these pathways.
• Preclinical studies indicate that exercise activates PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK pathways, supporting dopaminergic neuron preservation.
• Peripheral BDNF biomarker limitations exist, and there is a mismatch between human biomarker studies and animal mechanistic studies.

Interpretation:

BDNF/TrkB signaling is involved in the neuroprotective effects of exercise in Parkinson's disease, influenced by various factors.

Limitations:

• Current evidence on the effects of exercise on BDNF/TrkB signaling is uneven and requires careful interpretation.
• The role of PLCγ-related signaling and TrkB isoform-specific regulation remains less clearly defined.

Conclusion:

Exercise may serve as an adjunctive intervention in Parkinson's disease, with potential relevance to neuronal health and functional outcomes.