Plasma brain derived neurotrophic factor level as a modifying factor for trans fat intake and hypertension

Long-term consumption of trans-fat has been linked with its incorporation in brain neural membrane that could lead into alteration of signalling pathways, including Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). As an ubiquitous neurotrophin, BDNF is believed to play a role in the regulation of blood pressure yet prior studies shown conflicting results to its effect. Moreover, direct effect of trans fat intake to hypertension has not yet been elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the role of BDNF and its association between trans-fat intake and hypertension.

We conducted a population study in Natuna Regency which once reportedly has the highest prevalence of hypertension from Indonesian National Health Survey. Subjects with hypertension and those without hypertension were recruited for the study. Demographic data, physical examination, and food recall were collected. The level of BDNF from all subjects were obtained through analysis of blood samples.

A total of 181 participants were included in this study, comprising 134 (74%) hypertensive subjects and 47 (26%) normotensive subjects. Median of daily trans-fat intake of hypertensive subjects was higher compared to normotensive subjects (0,013 [0,0003-0,07] vs 0,010 [0,0006-0,06] % of total energy/day, p = 0,021). Interaction analysis showed significant results for plasma BDNF level in relationship of trans-fat intake and hypertension (p = 0,011). Trans-fat intake association to hypertension in overall subjects showed odds ratio (OR) of 1,85 95%CI 1,05-3,26 (p = 0,034), while in those with low-middle tercile BDNF level the OR was 3,35 95%CI 1,46-7,68 (p = 0,004).

Plasma BDNF level has a modifying effect in the association between trans-fat intake and hypertension. Subjects with high trans-fat intake, while having low BDNF level, have the highest probability for hypertension.