Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Mitigates the Association Between Platelet Dysfunction and Cognitive Impairment

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Neuroscience
• Hematology

Background:

• Platelet hyperactivity is detrimental in coronary artery disease (CAD) and linked to cognitive decline.
• Activated platelets release Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a neurotrophin known to protect against cognitive impairment.
• The interplay between platelet activation, BDNF, and cognitive function, particularly in the context of CAD, requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) mediates the relationship between platelet activation and cognitive function.
• To determine if this relationship is moderated by the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD).

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study of 1,280 participants, with and without CAD.
• Cognitive function assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA).
• Plasma levels of BDNF and soluble P-selectin (platelet activity marker) measured via multiplex flow cytometry.

Main Results:

• Platelet activity correlated with higher plasma BDNF levels, a relationship stronger in non-CAD individuals.
• Higher BDNF levels were associated with better MoCA scores.
• Platelet activity had a significant positive indirect effect on cognitive performance via BDNF, which was diminished in CAD patients.

Conclusions:

• Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) released from activated platelets may mitigate the negative impact of platelet activity on cognitive function.
• The mediating role of BDNF in this association is less effective in individuals with coronary artery disease (CAD).
• These findings highlight a potential therapeutic target for cognitive health in cardiovascular patients.