Adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) controls central nervous system and promotes peripheral nervous system regeneration via physical exercise

Physical exercise has beneficial effects on adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) and cognitive processes, including learning. Although it is not known if anaerobic resistance training and high-intensity interval training, which involve alternating brief bouts of highly intense anaerobic activity with rest periods, have comparable effects on AHN. Also, while less thoroughly investigated, individual genetic diversity in the overall response to physical activity is likely to play a key role in the effects of exercise on AHN. Physical exercise has been shown to improve health on average, although the benefits may vary from person to person, perhaps due to genetic differences. Maximal aerobic capacity and metabolic health may improve significantly with aerobic exercise for some people, while the same amount of training may have little effect on others. This review discusses the AHN's capability for peripheral nervous system (PNS) regeneration and central nervous system (CNS) control via physical exercise. Exercise neurogenicity, effective genes, growth factors, and the neurotrophic factors involved in PNS regeneration and CNS control were discussed. Also, some disorders that could be affected by AHN and physical exercise are summarized. •Physical activity improves AHN and cognitive activities, particularly learning.•Individual genetic diversity in the overall response to physical activity is likely to play a key role in the effects of exercise on AHN.•Aerobic exercise may enhance some people's maximal aerobic capacity and metabolic health greatly, while it may have minimal impact on others.•This review highlights the AHN's capacity to regenerate the PNS and govern the CNS via physical activity.•Exercise neurogenicity, effective genes, growth factors, and neurotrophic factors involved in PNS regeneration and CNS regulation were all reviewed.