The effect of combined functional training on BDNF, IGF-1, and their association with health-related fitness in the multiple sclerosis women

Objective: Exercise-induced changes in the neurotrophic factors and the physical function are essential for the rehabilitation of the multiple sclerosis (MS) persons. The aim of this study was investigating of effectiveness of the combined functional training (CFT) on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), insulin-like growth factor1 (IGF-1), and their association with health-related fitness in the MS women. Design: Twenty women with relapsing-remitting MS randomly assigned to CFT and control (CON) groups. The CFT consisted of 8 weeks (3 days per week) rhythmic aerobic exercise, TRX suspension training, elastic band training, and bodyweight training. BDNF, IGF-1, and health-related fitness components were assessed before and after the intervention. Results: There was no significant difference in BDNF level between the CFT and the CON group. In contrast, IGF-1, walking speed, and strength of the right- and left-hand was significantly increased in the CFT compared with the CON group. Furthermore, there was a significant and positive correlation between IGF-1 and some fitness components. Conclusions: The findings indicated that CFT might a useful training mode in the rehabilitation of the MS women. CFT improved IGF-1 level that is a neuroprotective agent in MS. Positive and significant association between IGF-1 and some health-related fitness components indicates of the importance of IGF-1 in the rehabilitation of the MS persons than BDNF.