BDNF biosensors for neurodegenerative disease

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomarker Discovery
• Biosensor Technology

Background:

• Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is critical for neuronal survival and function.
• Altered BDNF levels are linked to neurological disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
• Central nervous system (CNS) inflammatory markers are detectable in various bodily fluids.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review BDNF's molecular aspects, regulation, and its potential as a biomarker for neurological diseases.
• To explore the use of aptasensors and immunosensors for early disease detection.
• To discuss challenges and the role of biosensors in BDNF monitoring.

Main Methods:

• Multidisciplinary review of existing literature on BDNF.
• Focus on aptasensor and immunosensor technologies for BDNF detection.
• Discussion of electrochemical and optical transducer-based biosensing methods.

Main Results:

• BDNF's complex regulation presents challenges for its use as a biomarker.
• Biosensors show potential for sensitive and specific BDNF detection.
• Advancements in biosensing can enable personalized medicine and community screening.

Conclusions:

• BDNF holds significant potential as a biomarker for neurological conditions.
• Biosensors are key to overcoming challenges in BDNF detection and monitoring.
• Real-time, non-invasive, point-of-care (POC) monitoring of BDNF is achievable with biosensor technology.