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Brain-derived neurotrophic factor in patients with multiple sclerosis.
Paola Sarchielli1, Laura Greco, Antonio Stipa
1Neuroscience Department, University of Perugia, Policlinico Monteluce, Via E Dal Pozzo 79, 06126 Perugia, Italy. neuro@netemedia.net
Journal of Neuroimmunology
|November 6, 2002
Summary
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels are elevated during multiple sclerosis (MS) relapses but reduced in progressive MS, suggesting a role in disease activity and neuroprotection.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating disease of the central nervous system.
- Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) plays a crucial role in neuronal survival, growth, and differentiation.
- The role of BDNF in different phases and subtypes of MS requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate BDNF production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in patients with relapsing-remitting (R-R) MS and secondary progressive (SP) MS.
- To compare BDNF levels in PBMCs and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) between MS patients and healthy controls.
- To assess the correlation between BDNF levels and disease activity/progression in MS.
Main Methods:
- BDNF production was measured in unstimulated and stimulated PBMCs (PHA, anti-OKT3 Ab, MBP) from 35 MS patients (20 R-R MS, 15 SP MS) and 20 controls.
- PBMC stimulation assays were performed during different disease phases (relapse, recovery, stable) in R-R MS patients.
- BDNF levels were also quantified in CSF samples from both patient groups and controls.
Main Results:
- PBMC-derived BDNF levels were significantly higher during relapse and recovery phases in R-R MS patients compared to the stable phase.
- SP MS patients exhibited significantly lower BDNF levels in both unstimulated and stimulated PBMCs compared to controls.
- Reduced BDNF levels in SP MS correlated with increased disability scores (EDSS) and were also observed in their CSF compared to R-R MS and controls.
Conclusions:
- Elevated BDNF production by inflammatory cells during MS relapses may indicate a neuroprotective role and potential for remyelination.
- Diminished BDNF production in SP MS patients suggests a contribution to disease progression, including demyelination and axonal loss.
- BDNF levels in PBMCs and CSF serve as potential biomarkers for different MS disease courses.