| INTERPLAY BETWEEN MOLECULAR BIOMARKERS OF NEUROPLASTICITY AND PSYCHOSOCIAL STRESS IN COMPETITIVE SPORTS |
| Paper ID : 1467-SPORTCONGRESS |
| Authors |
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Farzad Alimohammadi *1, Maryam Khaleghi2, Mehryar Anasseri3, Mohammad Reza Bayat4 1Department of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Humanities, Islamic Azad University of Arak 22. Bioprocess Engineering Department, Institute of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran 3Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities, Ashtian Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ashtian, Iran. 4Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities, Andimshek Branch, Islamic Azad University, Andimshek, Iran |
| Abstract |
| Abstract Introduction: Competitive sports present both opportunities and challenges for psychological development. Psychosocial stress, common in competitive environments, may influence neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to adapt and reorganize at the molecular level. Understanding how molecular biomarkers of neuroplasticity interact with psychosocial stress in athletes is crucial to promoting mental health and performance. Methods: A systematic review was conducted by searching PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for studies published between 2010 and 2025. Inclusion criteria focused on research exploring molecular biomarkers related to neuroplasticity (e.g., BDNF, synaptic proteins) and their modulation by psychosocial stress in athletes engaged in competitive sports. Results: Evidence indicates that elevated psychosocial stress in competitive sports can alter expression of neuroplasticity markers such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and synapsin, potentially impairing cognitive and emotional function. However, regular physical activity also induces beneficial neuroplastic adaptations, mediated by epigenetic regulation and molecular signaling pathways. The balance between stress-induced molecular changes and exercise-driven neuroplasticity appears critical for psychological resilience and social functioning in athletes. Conclusion: The interaction between psychosocial stress and molecular biomarkers of neuroplasticity plays a pivotal role in shaping psychological outcomes in competitive sports. Targeted interventions that modulate these molecular pathways may enhance mental health and athletic performance. |
| Keywords |
| Neuroplasticity, Psychosocial Stress, Athletes, Molecular Biomarkers, Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) |
| Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation) |
