Effects of a resistance exercise program on depressive symptoms, inflammatory markers, and physical parameters in adults with bipolar disorder: a randomized clinical trial.

• Grant number: 25/28137-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: February 01, 2026
• End date: January 31, 2029
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physical Education
• Principal Investigator: Lucas Melo Neves
• Grantee: Tabatah Hellen Santos Gomes
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biociências (IB). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Rio Claro. Rio Claro , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 24/02369-6 - Effects of a physical exercise program on depression symptoms, inflammatory markers, and neurocognitive indicators in people with bipolar disorder: a randomized study, AP.R

Abstract

Introduction: There is a scarcity of evidence regarding the effect of physical exercise (a structured, guided, and systematized form of physical activity) as a strategy combined with usual drug treatment on the symptoms of depression in people with bipolar disorder (BD). Consequently, the most recent recommendation from the World Health Organization for the practice of physical activity/exercise does not address its possible benefits in BD. Additionally, clarification of the potential benefit of resistance exercise (weight training) on ¿¿key mechanisms such as inflammatory biomarkers and muscle strength in people with BD is necessary. Objectives: To verify the effects of a 12-week resistance exercise program, performed 3 times a week, in people with BD. Methods: Randomized clinical trial with 2 groups [control group: n=30 (usual treatment + stretching); experimental group: n=30 (usual treatment + resistance exercise)]. Measures evaluated: a) clinical outcome - symptoms of depression; b) expression of inflammatory markers (cytokines - IL-1¿, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-¿) and C-reactive protein (CRP), and expression of neurotrophin (Brain-derived neurotrophic factor - BDNF); c) physical parameters: muscle strength (1RM test) and body composition (body fat and muscle). Expected results: In this randomized clinical trial, the first in the world to focus on resistance exercise and TB, we expect to demonstrate the potential benefit of a resistance exercise program on the clinical aspects of people with TB, as well as the possible impacts on inflammatory biomarkers and physical parameters. (AU)