Use of high-dose androgens is associated with reduced brain derived neurotrophic factor in male weightlifters

This study examined the association between long-term androgen exposure and BDNF levels, and the links between BDNF, heavy resistance exercise, hormones, androgens and mental health. Methods: We measured serum levels of BDNF and sex steroid hormones in male weightlifters (N=141) with a history of current (n=59), past (n=29) or no (n=52) androgen use. All participants completed questionnaires assessing maximum strength and measures of anxiety and depression. Group differences in BDNF were tested using general linear models adjusting for age, and associations between BDNF and strength, anxiety and depression using Pearson ’s or Kendall’s correlations. Results: Both current (mean: 44.1 ng/ml (SD:12.7)) and past (39.5 ng/ml (SD:13.9)) androgen users showed lower serum BDNF levels compared to non-using controls (51.5 (SD: 15.3), p
Source: Neuroendocrinology - Category: Endocrinology Source Type: research