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Serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor: An Emerging Marker for Diabetic Retinopathy
Vivek Ram K U1, Sheelu S Siddiqi2, Tanusree Debbarman2
1Institute of Ophthalmology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), Aligarh, IND.
Cureus
|December 23, 2024
Summary
Lower serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels are associated with diabetic retinopathy (DR) in type 2 diabetes patients. BDNF may be an early predictor of DR, offering potential therapeutic insights for diabetes complications.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Endocrinology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global health concern linked to microvascular and macrovascular complications.
- Diabetic retinopathy (DR), a leading cause of blindness, affects the neurosensory retina and may represent a sensory neuropathy.
- Neurotrophins, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), are implicated in DR progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between serum BDNF levels and DR in type 2 diabetic patients.
- To evaluate BDNF as a potential biomarker for DR in a North Indian population.
Main Methods:
- A hospital-based case-control study involving 44 diabetic patients with DR (cases) and 44 without DR (controls).
- Serum BDNF levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
- Statistical analysis included Mann-Whitney U test and logistic regression.
Main Results:
- Mean serum BDNF levels were significantly lower in patients with DR (1598 ± 483 pg/ml) compared to controls (2753 ± 465 pg/ml) (p<0.0001).
- Logistic regression indicated that BDNF is a significant predictor of DR.
- A statistically significant difference in BDNF levels was observed between the groups.
Conclusions:
- Lower serum BDNF levels are correlated with the presence of DR in type 2 diabetes.
- BDNF shows promise as an early predictive marker for diabetic retinopathy.
- Modulating BDNF levels may represent a future therapeutic strategy for managing diabetes-related ocular complications, warranting further investigation.
