Brain derived neurotrophic factor

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a protein that, in humans, is encoded by the BDNF gene. BDNF is a member of the neurotrophin family of growth factors, which also includes nerve growth factor (NGF), neurotrophin 3 (NT3), and neurotrophin 4 (NT4). These proteins are vital for the growth, survival, and differentiation of neurons during development.

Function

BDNF acts on certain neurons of the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system, helping to support the survival of existing neurons, and encourage the growth and differentiation of new neurons and synapses. In the brain, it is active in the hippocampus, cortex, and basal forebrain—areas vital to learning, memory, and higher thinking.

Clinical significance

BDNF is important for long-term memory. Numerous studies have linked impaired memory and certain mental disorders with decreased levels of BDNF. Alterations in the function of BDNF are associated with Alzheimer's disease, depression, and other psychiatric disorders. In addition, therapeutic approaches for these disorders are often aimed at restoring serum BDNF levels.

Research

Research on BDNF includes studies on its role in the pathophysiology of mood disorders, schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. It is also being investigated in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

See also

• Neurotrophin
• Nerve growth factor
• Neurotrophin 3
• Neurotrophin 4