BDNF concentration and impulsiveness level in post-traumatic stress disorder

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with symptoms like impulsiveness and hyperarousal.
• Neurotrophins, particularly brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), are implicated in psychiatric disorders, with conflicting reports on BDNF levels in PTSD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between serum BDNF levels and impulsiveness in individuals with PTSD.
• To explore potential neurobiological underpinnings of impulsivity in PTSD.

Main Methods:

• Serum BDNF levels were measured in 23 PTSD patients and 19 trauma-exposed controls.
• Impulsiveness was assessed using the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11).

Main Results:

• A positive correlation was observed between BDNF serum levels and impulsiveness scores in the PTSD group.
• Higher BDNF levels were associated with higher impulsiveness in PTSD patients.

Conclusions:

• Impulsiveness in PTSD may be associated with increased BDNF production.
• High impulsiveness might serve as a coping mechanism against trauma-related distress and obsessive thoughts in PTSD.