Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition featuring by gradual degradation of the cortical and hippocampal neurons, which results in impaired cognitive and memory functions.

Objectives: To assess the effect of chronic moderate aerobic and resistant pattern of exercise on brain functions regarding memory and anxiety and implication changes of APN and BDNF gene expression.

Subjects and methods: Sixty adult male albino rats were subdivided randomly into two main groups (n=30), control group and AD group. Each main group was suballocated into three subgroups (n=10) according to intensity of exercise. Finally we had 6 groups: Subgroup Ia: vehicle only. Subgroup Ib: vehicle + Moderate aerobic exercise. Subgroup Ic: vehicle + resistant exercise. Subgroup IIa: AlCl3. Subgroup IIb: AlCl3 + Moderate aerobic exercise. Subgroup IIc: AlCl3+ resistant exercise. APN and BDNF gene expression were assessed and histopathological examination of cerebral cortex and hippocampus was done. Evaluation of behavioral parameters was done using modified T-maze to evaluate short term and working memory.

Results: Gene expressions of APN and BDNF were substantially decreased in the all AD subgroups compared to their corresponding control subgroups. However, they were remarkably elevated in moderately exercised subgroups compared to the sedentary subgroups. Moreover, in resistantly exercised subgroups, they were significantly higher than that of the sedentary and moderately exercised subgroups.

Conclusion: serum APN & BDNF can be employed as a biomarker for early diagnosis of AD. Also regular exercise should be recommended for all patients with AD.