Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is the most widely distributed neurotrophin in the CNS, where it plays several pivotal roles in synaptic plasticity and neuronal survival. As a consequence, BDNF has become a key target in the physiopathology of several neurological and psychiatric diseases. Recent studies have consistently reported altered levels of BDNF in the circulation (i.e., serum or plasma) of patients with major depression, bipolar disorder, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease and Parkinson's disease. Correlations between serum BDNF levels and affective, cognitive and motor symptoms have also been described. BDNF appears to be an unspecific biomarker of neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by neurodegenerative changes.
MeSH terms
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Alzheimer Disease / blood
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Alzheimer Disease / etiology
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Alzheimer Disease / metabolism
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Alzheimer Disease / physiopathology
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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / blood
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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / metabolism
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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / physiopathology
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Animals
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Antidepressive Agents / pharmacology
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Biomarkers / blood
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Biomarkers / metabolism
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Bipolar Disorder / blood
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Bipolar Disorder / etiology
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Bipolar Disorder / metabolism
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Bipolar Disorder / physiopathology
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Brain / drug effects
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Brain / physiology
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Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor / blood*
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Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor / physiology
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Chorea / metabolism
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Cognition Disorders / blood*
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Cognition Disorders / etiology
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Cognition Disorders / metabolism
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Cognition Disorders / physiopathology
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Depressive Disorder, Major / blood
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Depressive Disorder, Major / etiology
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Depressive Disorder, Major / metabolism
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Depressive Disorder, Major / physiopathology
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Dystonia / metabolism
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Humans
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Huntington Disease / blood
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Huntington Disease / etiology
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Huntington Disease / metabolism
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Mood Disorders / blood*
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Mood Disorders / etiology
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Mood Disorders / metabolism
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Mood Disorders / physiopathology
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Neurodegenerative Diseases / blood*
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Neurodegenerative Diseases / etiology
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Neurodegenerative Diseases / metabolism
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Neuronal Plasticity / physiology
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Parkinson Disease / blood
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Parkinson Disease / etiology
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Parkinson Disease / metabolism
Substances
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Antidepressive Agents
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Biomarkers
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Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor