Association between BDNF levels and suicidal behaviour: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Rebecca B Eisen1, Stefan Perera2,3, Laura Banfield4
1MiNDS Neuroscience Graduate Program, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada. eisenrb@mcmaster.ca.
Systematic Reviews
|January 1, 2016
Summary
This systematic review found no significant association between serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels and suicide attempts. Further research is needed due to methodological limitations in current studies on BDNF and suicidal behavior.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Genetics
Background:
- Suicidal behavior is a complex issue with numerous risk factors.
- Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a vital role in nervous system function and may influence suicide risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and summarize existing literature on the relationship between BDNF levels and suicidal behavior.
Main Methods:
- Searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, and CINAHL databases from inception to December 2015.
- Included observational studies (case-control, cohort) investigating BDNF levels in individuals with and without suicidal behavior.
- Conducted duplicate screening, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment.
Main Results:
- 14 studies were included after screening 631 articles.
- A meta-analysis of 3 studies found no significant association between serum BDNF levels and suicide attempts.
- The remaining 11 studies yielded inconsistent findings regarding BDNF and suicidal behavior.
Conclusions:
- Meta-analysis results suggest no significant link between serum BDNF and suicide attempts.
- Qualitative review did not consistently support an association between BDNF levels and suicidal behavior.
- Existing evidence is limited by significant methodological issues.
