Combined Physical Training Increases Plasma Brain-Derived Neurotropic Factor Levels, But Not Irisin in People Living with HIV/AIDS.

This study evaluated plasma levels of brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF), irisin, and lactate in people living with HIV/AIDS who completed a combined physical training program. Nineteen HIV participants (age: 39.60 ± 10.96 years; carrier time: 7.75 ± 7.88 years; time of ART: 6.41 ± 5.93 years) performed strength/aerobic training (combined physical training) in the same session for 8 weeks and levels of BDNF, irisin, and lactate were assessed. BDNF (pg/mL) was higher post-CPT (Pre: 1258.73 ± 372.30; Post: 1504.17 ± 322.30; < 0.001). Irisin (ng/mL) showed no change (Pre: 115.61 ± 72.41; Post: 125.87 ± 81.14; = 0.973). There was positive correlation between irisin and lactate (mmol/L) pre ( = 0.55, = 0.04), and lactate values were higher in the group with the highest value of irisin (3.65 ± 0.69 × 2.82 ± 0.59, = 0.02). Combined physical training results in increased basal BDNF in people living with HIV/AIDS, this finding suggests that increased concentration of BDNF may be associated with decreased chances of developing cognitive disorders or HIV-associated dementia. Further studies involving molecular mechanisms on this subject are necessary.