Association of polymorphic variants of the gene BDNF in human adaptation to extreme environmental conditions and life expectancy

Abstract

BDNF is a member of the neurotrophin protein family, which plays an important role in the development, maintenance and plasticity of the central and peripheral nervous system. BDNF is expressed in neurons of the developing and adult mammalian nervous system, where it is produced in relatively small amounts, but has high activity, causing biological reactions at picomolar concentrations. It promotes the differentiation of neurons from stem cells, enhances neurite growth and synaptogenesis, and can prevent programmed cell death (apoptosis). The role of BDNF in the regulation of energy homeostasis is also great: by stimulating glucose transport and mitochondrial biogenesis, BDNF enhances cell bioenergetics and protects neurons from damage and neurodegenerative diseases. It is BDNF that controls nutrition patterns (regulating appetite) and types of physical activity, modulates glucose metabolism in peripheral tissues and mediates the positive effect of exercise and fasting on cognitive functions, mood, cardiovascular function and peripheral metabolism. This article presents a mini-review of the data accumulated to date on the role of polymorphic variants of the BDNF gene in the processes of active physiological and psychological adaptation and their comparison with the data obtained by the authors in the study of psychological adaptation to working conditions in the Arctic region of the Russian Federation. The given materials allow us to conclude that optimal adaptation to extreme external conditions is most likely provided genetically by the presence of the Val/Val genotype of the BDNF gene (also associated, in turn, with the probable extension of the individual survival period), and psychologically by the increased use of creative ability.