Plasma nerve growth factor level is associated with functional outcome after ischemic stroke

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomarkers
• Stroke Research

Background:

• Nerve growth factor (NGF) influences neurogenesis, neuroplasticity, and neuroinflammation.
• The prognostic role of NGF in ischemic stroke outcomes is not well-established.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between plasma NGF levels and functional outcomes following ischemic stroke.
• To determine if NGF can serve as a prognostic biomarker for ischemic stroke.

Main Methods:

• Plasma NGF levels were measured in 3527 ischemic stroke patients within 48 hours of symptom onset.
• Patients were followed for one year to assess poor functional outcome (death or major disability, mRS 3-6).
• Multivariate logistic regression and restricted cubic splines analyzed the relationship between NGF levels and outcomes.

Main Results:

• Elevated plasma NGF levels were significantly associated with an increased risk of poor functional outcome at one year.
• Each standard deviation increase in NGF was linked to an 11% higher risk of poor outcomes.
• A positive linear relationship was observed between plasma NGF and the risk of poor functional outcome.

Conclusions:

• High plasma NGF levels within 48 hours post-stroke are linked to poorer functional outcomes at one year.
• Plasma NGF shows potential as a prognostic biomarker for ischemic stroke.
• Further validation in diverse patient cohorts is recommended.