Neurodegenerationsmarker im Verlauf eines 6-wöchigen hochfrequenten standardisierten Sportprogramms (SIWAS) in 3 Gruppen Psychiatrischer Erkrankungen

by Till Weidenbacher
Doctoral thesis
Date of Examination:2025-05-05
Date of issue:2025-04-28
Advisor:Prof. Dr. Dirk Wedekind
Referee:Prof. Dr. Inga Zerr
Referee:Prof. Dr. Dieter Kube
Persistent Address: http://dx.doi.org/10.53846/goediss-11215

 

 

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Abstract

English

This study investigated the effects of a six-week, structured physical exercise program on neurodegenerative biomarkers in patients with schizophrenia, depression, or substance use disorders. A total of 61 participants were assigned to three groups and underwent blood sampling at baseline, after three weeks, and after six weeks. The study focused on blood levels of ß-amyloid, tau protein, neurofilament light chain (NfL), and neuron-specific enolase (NSE). While statistical significance was not reached in most results, trends suggested potential biological responses to physical activity. Notably, subgroups such as individuals with obesity or a disease duration of over 10 years showed changes in certain biomarkers. The findings imply that exercise may exert neuroprotective effects even in psychiatric populations. Future studies should include longer observation periods and larger sample sizes.
Keywords: Psychiatry; Physical Exercise; Neurodegeneration; Sport Intervention; Biomarkers; Depression; Schizophrenia; Substance Use Disorders