Abstract
Background The precise mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of autism are currently unknown. Given the key role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in brain development, we hypothesized that BDNF may play a role in the pathophysiology of autism. In this study, we studied whether serum levels of BDNF are altered in patients with autism. Methods We measured serum levels of BDNF in 18 adult male patients with autism and 18 age-matched healthy male control subjects. Results The serum levels of BDNF in patients with autism (25.6 ± 2.15 ng/ml (mean ± S.D.)) were significantly ( z = − 4.42, p < 0.001) lower than those of normal controls (61.6 ± 10.9 ng/ml (mean ± S.D.)). Nevertheless, we found no correlations between BDNF levels and clinical variables in autistic patients. Conclusions This study suggests that reduced BDNF levels may play a role in the pathophysiology of autism.
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