Brain-based exercises and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (Bdnf) gene polymorphisms in basketball players; examination of Serum Bdnf levels and their effects on performance

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of brain-based exercises and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene polymorphisms on serum BDNF levels and performance in basketball players. The study included 24 male basketball players aged between 18-2 years, all without any health issues. Participants were divided into three groups: basketball training group (n=8), basketball+brain-based exercises group (n=8), and brain-based exercises group (n=8). Within each group, 2 athletes had the BDNF gene polymorphism (rs6265). The training programs lasted for 12 weeks with sessions of 90-120 minutes at least three times a week. Brain-based exercises were performed immediately after basketball training sessions. The brain-based exercises group did not participate in basketball training, while the basketball training group did not participate in brain-based exercises. Data collection tools included the basketball skills test, basketball rapid shooting test, static and dynamic balance tests, D2 attention test, and reaction test. Blood samples were collected from the athletes before the training sessions to determine BDNF gene polymorphisms. Serum levels were measured four times: before and after the first training session, and before and after the last training session for each group. Statistical analyses were conducted using a statistical package program. The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to assess the normality of all values, as it is preferred for smaller data sets. Results indicated that all values followed a normal distribution. Paired Samples T-Test was used for within-group pre-test and post-test comparisons. One-Way ANOVA test was applied for between-group comparisons of pre-test and post-test values. The LSD Post Hoc test was used to analyze the superiority levels among variables that showed differences. All test results were evaluated with a significance level of "p<0.05". As a result, it was determined that athletes with GG genotype achieved better results than athletes with GA genotype in both performance and serum level measurements.