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BDNF

Growth Factors
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic FactorAbrineurin

Overview

Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), also known as Abrineurin, is an endogenous protein belonging to the neurotrophin family of growth factors. It is primarily produced in the central nervous system, particularly in the brain regions such as the hippocampus, cortex, and basal forebrain. BDNF is a member of the chemical class of proteins and is encoded by the BDNF gene. It plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of neuronal networks. Researchers have extensively studied BDNF for its involvement in neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. BDNF is vital for long-term memory formation and is implicated in various neurological and psychiatric disorders, including depression, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease. It is also a focus of research in neurodegenerative diseases and recovery from brain injuries. The mechanism of action of BDNF involves binding to its high-affinity receptor, TrkB (tropomyosin receptor kinase B), and the low-affinity receptor, p75NTR. Upon binding, it activates several intracellular signaling pathways, including the MAPK/ERK, PI3K/Akt, and PLCγ pathways, leading to neuronal survival, growth, and differentiation. BDNF's pharmacokinetic properties are not well-defined due to its endogenous nature. However, researchers have observed that it has a short circulating half-life and is rapidly metabolized. Its bioavailability is limited when administered exogenously due to its large molecular size and inability to cross the blood-brain barrier effectively. Clinically, BDNF is not directly used as a therapeutic agent due to these pharmacokinetic challenges. However, it is a target for drug development aimed at modulating its levels or mimicking its effects. Currently, there are no regulatory approvals for BDNF as a direct therapeutic agent, but it remains a significant focus of research for potential therapeutic strategies in neurological and psychiatric conditions.

Mechanism of Action

BDNF acts primarily on the TrkB receptor, initiating a cascade of intracellular signaling pathways such as MAPK/ERK, PI3K/Akt, and PLCγ. This activation promotes neuronal survival, differentiation, and synaptic plasticity, contributing to its role in neuroplasticity and cognitive functions.

Half-Life & Pharmacokinetics

EndogenousCirculating half-life is short and varies.
OralPoor bioavailability due to first-pass metabolism

BDNF's large molecular size and inability to cross the blood-brain barrier limit its pharmacokinetic characterization.

Storage

Temperature

Refrigerate at 2-8°C

Light

Protect from light

Form

Aqueous solution: use within specified time after reconstitution

Notes

Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles to maintain stability.

Solubility

BDNF is soluble in aqueous solutions but has limited solubility in organic solvents.

Legal Status

🇩🇪DE

Data limited

🇺🇸US

Data limited

🇦🇺AU

Data limited

🇬🇧UK

Data limited

Legal status information is provided for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulatory changes. Always verify with official government sources before making any decisions.

10 Research Publications

Intranasal Delivery of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)-Loaded Small Extracellular Vesicles for Treating Acute Spinal Cord Injury in Rats and Monkeys.

Human

Journal of extracellular vesicles · 2025

Researchers observed that delivering small extracellular vesicles loaded with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) through the nose improved recovery in rats and monkeys with acute spinal cord injuries. This treatment reduced inflammation, promoted nerve repair, and enhanced functional performance compared to standard treatments.

  • Intranasal BDNF-sEVs reduced inflammation and promoted nerve survival.
  • The treatment improved functional recovery in both rats and monkeys.
  • BDNF-sEVs activated important signaling pathways related to nerve repair.
PubMed

Astrocytes and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).

Review

Neuroscience research · 2023

Researchers observed that astrocytes, a type of brain cell, play a crucial role in how brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) affects brain functions. They found that astrocytes respond to BDNF and are involved in recycling it at synapses, which is important for learning and memory. Additionally, deficits in BDNF related to astrocytes may be linked to various brain disorders, highlighting their potential as a target for future treatments.

  • Astrocytes actively participate in the physiology of BDNF.
  • Astrocytes respond to BDNF through specific receptors and vary their responses based on brain area and development stage.
  • Deficits in astrocytic BDNF are linked to several brain disorders.
PubMed

Effects of lithium on serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Alzheimer's patients with agitation.

Human

International journal of geriatric psychiatry · 2023

Researchers observed that low-dose lithium treatment did not significantly change levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in Alzheimer's patients with agitation after 12 weeks. Additionally, there was no improvement in overall neuropsychiatric symptoms or cognitive function linked to lithium treatment. Further studies are needed to explore lithium's effects on BDNF in different stages of Alzheimer's disease.

  • Lithium treatment did not significantly change BDNF levels.
  • No improvement in neuropsychiatric symptoms or cognitive function was observed.
  • Further research is needed to understand lithium's effects in different stages of Alzheimer's.
PubMed

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in perinatal depression: Side show or pivotal factor?

Review

Drug discovery today · 2023

Researchers observed that perinatal depression, a common issue during and after pregnancy, may be linked to lower levels of a protein called BDNF in the blood. They found that restoring BDNF levels through antidepressant therapy could be important for understanding and treating this condition.

  • Perinatal depression is a significant health issue for mothers and infants.
  • Lower BDNF levels are associated with increased risk of perinatal depression.
  • Antidepressant therapy may help restore BDNF levels.
PubMed

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in schizophrenia research: a quantitative review and future directions.

Review

AIMS neuroscience · 2023

Researchers observed a growing interest in studying brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in relation to schizophrenia, with significant contributions from China and the United States. They identified key research areas including cognition and BDNF's role as a biological marker, and suggested future studies should explore factors affecting BDNF levels and animal models of schizophrenia.

  • There is an increasing number of publications on BDNF and schizophrenia.
  • Cognition and BDNF as a neurobiological marker are major research topics.
  • Future research should focus on BDNF level factors and animal models.
PubMed

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor and mental disorders.

Review

Biomedical journal · 2020

Researchers found that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a significant role in brain health and is linked to various mental disorders, including schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, and bipolar disorder. They observed changes in BDNF levels and genetic variations that may influence these conditions.

  • BDNF protein levels vary in individuals with mental disorders.
  • Genetic variations, such as the Val66Met polymorphism, are associated with BDNF function.
  • Epigenetic changes may affect BDNF expression in psychiatric conditions.
PubMed

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor and post-stroke depression.

Review

Journal of neuroscience research · 2020

Researchers observed that lower levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are linked to post-stroke depression (PSD). They found that antidepressants can increase BDNF levels, potentially easing depression symptoms. However, the exact role of BDNF in PSD and how stroke affects its levels remains unclear.

  • Patients with post-stroke depression have lower BDNF levels compared to those without depression.
  • Antidepressants may boost BDNF expression in the brain, helping to reduce depression symptoms.
  • The relationship between stroke, BDNF levels, and the development of depression is not fully understood.
PubMed

Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Diabetes.

Review

International journal of molecular sciences · 2020

Researchers observed that diabetes can lead to higher risks of brain function issues and mental health disorders. They found that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports brain health, may be affected by diabetes and insulin resistance. Additionally, while physical activity is known to boost BDNF levels, its protective effects in people with diabetes remain unclear.

  • Diabetes increases the risk of impaired brain function and psychiatric disorders.
  • BDNF levels and function are disrupted in diabetes, linked to insulin resistance.
  • The impact of physical activity on BDNF in diabetes is not well understood.
PubMed

Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF): Novel Insights into Regulation and Genetic Variation.

Review

The Neuroscientist : a review journal bringing neurobiology, neurology and psychiatry · 2019

Researchers observed that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a crucial role in brain health and disease, with complex mechanisms governing its function. The study highlights ongoing questions about BDNF's biology and its genetic variations, suggesting that its diverse roles could influence various neurological conditions.

  • BDNF is the most studied neurotrophin due to its significant impact on brain health.
  • The research reviews BDNF's gene structure and signaling pathways.
  • New insights include the effects of genetic variations on BDNF function.
PubMed

A meta-analytic review of the effects of exercise on brain-derived neurotrophic factor.

Meta-Analysis

Journal of psychiatric research · 2015

Researchers found that exercise can increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is linked to improved thinking and mood. They observed that a single session of exercise boosts BDNF levels, and regular exercise enhances this effect. However, the increase in BDNF was found to be smaller in women compared to men.

  • A single session of exercise increases BDNF levels moderately.
  • Regular exercise further enhances the BDNF increase from a single session.
  • Women showed a smaller increase in BDNF levels from exercise compared to men.
PubMed

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This page is for informational and research purposes only. All information is based on published scientific literature. Nothing on this page constitutes medical advice or replaces consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.