Correlation of BDNF and CD4 with Cognitive Function in Patients with HIV Infection

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Immunology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection is linked to neurocognitive impairment, known as HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorder (HAND).
• Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) plays a crucial role in neuroplasticity, learning, and memory, potentially influencing HAND development.
• Understanding the relationship between BDNF, CD4 counts, and cognitive function is vital for managing HIV-related neurological complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between serum BDNF levels, CD4 cell counts, and cognitive function in HIV-positive individuals.
• To determine if BDNF or CD4 levels are more indicative of neurocognitive status in patients on antiretroviral therapy.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 58 HIV-positive patients (age 18-60, CD4 ≥200 cells/mm³) on antiretroviral therapy.
• Serum BDNF levels measured by ELISA, CD4 counts determined, and cognitive function assessed using the Stroop Test.
• Spearman's correlation analysis was employed to examine relationships between variables.

Main Results:

• A significant negative correlation was found between BDNF levels and Stroop Test performance (r = -0.288, p = 0.028), indicating higher BDNF is associated with better cognitive function.
• No significant correlation was observed between CD4 counts and cognitive function (p = 0.336).
• The study population had a mean age of 38.77 ± 9.28 years, with 79.3% males.

Conclusions:

• Serum BDNF levels are significantly correlated with cognitive function in HIV-positive patients.
• BDNF may serve as a potential biomarker for assessing neurocognitive impairment in HIV, particularly HAND.
• CD4 counts may not be a reliable indicator of neurocognitive status in HIV patients with CD4 counts ≥200 cells/mm³.