[Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and mood disorder]
Reiji Yoshimura1, Atsuko Ikenouchi-Sugita, Hikaru Hori
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, 11 Iseigaoka, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu 807-8555, Japan. yoshi621@med.uoeh-u.ac.jp
Nihon Shinkei Seishin Yakurigaku Zasshi = Japanese Journal of Psychopharmacology
|January 14, 2011
Summary
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is crucial for brain health and implicated in depression. Lower blood BDNF levels in depressed patients may serve as a biomarker for the disorder.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
Context:
- Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a key neurotrophin involved in neuronal survival, growth, and function.
- Depressive disorder is associated with neurobiological changes, including hippocampal alterations.
Purpose:
- To investigate the role of BDNF in depression.
- To explore the potential of blood BDNF levels as a biomarker for depression.
Summary:
- Chronic stress reduces hippocampal BDNF synthesis, leading to hippocampal atrophy in depressed individuals.
- Depressed patients exhibit decreased blood BDNF levels, correlating with depression severity.
- Antidepressant treatments, including SSRIs and SNRIs, restore reduced blood BDNF levels.
Impact:
- Blood BDNF levels show promise as a quantifiable biomarker for diagnosing and monitoring depression.
- Understanding BDNF's role offers insights into the pathophysiology of depression.
- This research supports the development of targeted therapeutic strategies for depression.
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