Relationship between brain-derived neurotrophic factor and mild to moderate cognitive impairment in the older Mexican population

Abstract

BackgroundMild–moderate cognitive impairment is a frequent pathology in the adult population. It is important to explore early expression biomarkers that contribute to early detection and benefit the prognostic outlook. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is an essential regulator of synaptic plasticity, neuronal survival, and differentiation, and even a critical molecular target for drug development in neurological disorders. It is crucial to carry out studies in the early stages that better clarify the landscape of BDNF. ObjectiveTo compare the serum levels of BDNF in healthy adult patients and those with mild to moderate cognitive impairment. Materials and methodsA casecontrol study in patients over 55- years with cognitive impairment, obtained by the MMSE® and MoCA® screening scales. A total of 191 patients, 102 patients with cognitive impairment (cases) and 89 healthy ones (controls) participated in the study. Blood samples were collected to obtain serum, with the determination of BDNF concentrations. For differences in BDNF concentrations, a one-way analysis of variance was used. The significance level of p<.05. ResultsThe mean serum concentration of BDNF in the case group was 277.68±75.09 vs. the control group, where the concentration was 354.97±66.06 pg/ml (p=.001). ConclusionsThere is an association between decreased BDNF levels and mild and moderate cognitive impairment in our study population.