Visualization analysis of dynamic evolution of hot topics in the field of physical activity and neural plasticity

Abstract

BACKGROUND: In recent years, numerous studies have shown that physical activity significantly promotes neural plasticity, contributing to improvements in cognitive abilities and neurological health. However, the current state and dynamic evolution of the research field on "physical activity and neural plasticity" have not been systematically organized and analyzed. This lack of comprehensive understanding may hinder accurate predictions regarding the future development trends in this area. OBJECTIVE: Using bibliometric methods, we analyzed the dynamic evolution trajectory of research topics in the field of physical activity and neural plasticity, organized the development trends and the evolution of the knowledge framework in this area, and provided directional references for subsequent research. METHODS: Relevant literature was retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database (www.webofscience.com) using the following search strategy: TS=(("physical activity" OR exercise OR "motor activity" OR "physical exercise" OR "aerobic exercise" OR "physical training") AND ("neuroplasticity" OR "brain plasticity" OR "neural plasticity" OR "cognitive plasticity" OR "brain adaptability")). A total of 2,098 eligible articles were included. Co-word analysis and visualization were performed using SciMAT software to generate keyword topic overlay maps, strategic coordinate maps, and topic evolution path maps, revealing the dynamic evolution process of research topics in this field. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Research in the field of physical activity and neural plasticity is flourishing, with increasingly in-depth studies and ample room for future development. (2) The field comprises five main evolution directions: "physical activity", "adult rats", "stem cells", "individual differences", and "randomized controlled trials", forming 15 sub-evolution paths. (3) Topics such as "older adults", "animal models", and "disease" may become future research focuses. (4) Therefore, it is recommended that future research employ randomized controlled trials and optimized animal model designs to investigate the long-term effects and mechanisms of physical activity on neural plasticity and cognitive function, and focus on clinical validation of multimodal interventions in special populations.

1. Introduction

Neural plasticity is the adaptive capacity of the nervous system to respond to internal and external environmental changes, serving as a critical foundation for learning, memory, recovery, and adaptability. It manifests in various forms, including synaptic plasticity (enhancement or depression of synaptic efficacy), neurogenesis (generation of new neurons), and dynamic reorganization of neural networks. During the initial stages of nervous system development, neural plasticity exhibits prominent characteristics and persists throughout the lifespan. However, with aging, the intensity of neural plasticity tends to decline. Research has shown that environmental enrichment and exercise interventions can partially activate the neuroplastic potential in older individuals.

Synaptic plasticity, a key component of neural plasticity, is modulated by numerous factors, including neurotrophic factors, hormones, environmental stimuli, pharmacological agents, and non-invasive brain stimulation. Neural plasticity not only supports normal cognitive function but also plays a vital role in disease rehabilitation and cognitive enhancement. Physical activity, as an effective intervention, has been widely demonstrated to promote neural plasticity, thereby improving cognitive function and neurological health. For instance, aerobic exercise has been shown to increase hippocampal volume and elevate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression, which enhances synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis.