Final answer:
Exercise impacts the brain by releasing myokines, such as irisin, from muscles during physical activity. Irisin stimulates brain receptors that activate signaling pathways involving cAMP and CREB, which are important for learning, memory, and neurogenesis. This illustrates the expansive influence exercise has on cognitive functions and mental health.
Step-by-step explanation:
The discussion revolves around how exercise affects the brain and cognitive functions through molecular signals such as irisin. When we engage in physical activity, our muscles release various substances, including myokines like irisin, which have an endocrine effect. Irisin enters the bloodstream and can cross the blood-brain barrier, where it stimulates receptors that activate a signaling pathway involving cyclic AMP (cAMP) and CREB (cAMP response element-binding protein). This pathway is crucial for processes related to learning and memory.
Aerobic exercise increases blood flow to the brain and elevates neurotransmitter levels, which play a significant role in memory retention and cognition. Regular aerobic exercise leads to the growth of new neurons in the hippocampus, an essential area for memory and learning, a phenomenon known as neurogenesis. In addition, exercise helps to maintain a healthy balance of stress hormones such as cortisol, which at high levels can negatively affect both mental and physical health.
The cAMP CREB pathway mentioned is particularly important because it contributes to structural and functional changes in the brain, such as enhanced cognitive control, memory, and overall brain resilience to stress, illustrating the broad effects of exercise on brain function and mental well-being.