Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor is associated with reduced appetite in healthy older adults

Loss of appetite and body mass are common in older adults and are associated with negative consequences. Research indicates that these processes likely involve increases in serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Animal and human models demonstrate that BDNF may serve a regulatory function in food intake, but no study has addressed the possibility that BDNF may be involved in appetite reduction and loss of body mass in older adults.

34 older adults without significant neurological or psychiatric history underwent fasting blood draw and measurement of body composition. Appetite and eating behavior were assessed by questionnaire and related to serum BDNF levels.

Partial correlations showed serum BDNF levels were inversely related to appetite (r = -.38, p = .02). No significant correlations emerged between serum BDNF and age, diet, or body composition.

The current study extends past work and shows that BDNF is associated with appetite in healthy older adults. Further work is needed to clarify mechanisms for these findings, particularly prospective studies.