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BDNF Val66met Gene Polymorphism in Primary Acute and Subacute Stroke Functional Recovery: A Systematic Review
Juliana Moura Alves Seixas1,2, Cristina Lemos Barbosa Furia3, Matheus Gomes de Castro1,2
1Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences and Technologies, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technologies, University of Brasília (UnB), Brasília 72220-900, Brazil.
Biomedicines
|July 28, 2026
Summary
Individuals carrying the Met allele of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene may experience poorer functional recovery after stroke. This genetic factor appears to influence motor, swallowing, and cortical excitability outcomes, though language recovery remains unclear.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Clinical Neurology
Background:
- Stroke is a major cause of death and disability worldwide.
- Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a role in neuroplasticity and stroke recovery.
- The BDNF Val66Met (rs6265) polymorphism is investigated for its impact on stroke outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the influence of the BDNF Val66Met variant on functional recovery in acute and early subacute primary stroke.
- To synthesize evidence regarding the association between this genetic polymorphism and post-stroke recovery across various functional domains.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines, registered with PROSPERO.
- Searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Virtual Health Library for observational and interventional studies.
- Included studies on adults with acute/subacute primary stroke evaluating the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism.
Main Results:
- Eleven studies involving 475 to 829 participants were included.
- Met allele carriers (Val/Met or Met/Met) generally showed poorer motor recovery.
- Unfavorable effects were suggested for cortical excitability and swallowing; language outcomes were inconclusive.
Conclusions:
- BDNF Val66Met Met carriers are frequently associated with poorer post-stroke functional recovery, particularly motor outcomes.
- Findings highlight the complex interaction between genetics and stroke recovery.
- Further standardized research across diverse populations is needed to clarify these associations.