Brain-derived neurotrophic factor: role in depression and suicide
1Psychiatric Institute, Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA. ydwivedi@psych.uic.edu
Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment
|September 2, 2009
Summary
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels are decreased in depression and suicidal behavior, suggesting its role in these conditions. Antidepressants may work by increasing BDNF expression, supporting the neurotrophin hypothesis of depression.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Depression and suicidal behavior are linked to altered neuronal plasticity.
- Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is crucial for neuronal survival and synaptic plasticity.
- Reduced BDNF expression is observed in depressed patients and may be independent of depression in suicidal behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence linking BDNF to the pathophysiology of depression and suicidal behavior.
- To explore the role of BDNF signaling pathways in these conditions.
- To discuss the involvement of BDNF receptors and epigenetic modifications.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing scientific literature and genetic studies.
- Analysis of findings on BDNF expression in depressed and suicidal individuals.
- Examination of the role of BDNF receptors (TrkB, TrkB.T1, p75NTR) and gene regulation.
Main Results:
- Decreased BDNF expression is a consistent finding in depression and suicidal behavior.
- Antidepressant treatments up-regulate BDNF expression.
- Abnormalities in TrkB receptors and p75 neurotrophin receptor function are implicated.
Conclusions:
- BDNF and its signaling pathways are critically involved in the pathophysiology of depression and suicidal behavior.
- The neurotrophin hypothesis of depression is supported by evidence of BDNF involvement.
- Epigenetic factors may modulate BDNF and TrkB gene expression in these conditions.
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