Serum Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor Research Articles

Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Neuron Specific Enolase Levels as Markers of Drugs of Abuse Induced Neuronal Injury

The protein brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a member of the neurotrophins family involved in neuronal differentiation and survival and in regulation of synaptic plasticity in brain. Neuron specific enolase (NSE) is found in the cytoplasm of brain neurons and is detected in serum after neuronal cell death. This study examined the effect of repeated administration of cannabis, tramadol or their combination on serum levels of BDNF and NSE. Rats received different doses of Cannabis sativa extract, tramadol or both on daily basis via the subcutaneous route for four weeks. The levels of BDNF and NSE in serum were determined by ELISA. Compared to the vehicle control: (i) serum BDNF showed significant increase in rats given cannabis at 5 mg/kg but decreased after treatment with 10 or 20 mg/kg cannabis; (ii) BDNF decreased after high dose of tramadol and by the combined administration of both cannabis and tramadol; (iii) serum NSE level was significantly raised in cannabis-treated animals. It also increased by tramadol and after combined treatment with cannabis and tramadol. The histopathological examination of the substantia nigra in animals administered cannabis or tramadol demonstrated the occurrence of degenerated neuronal cells. This was characterized by the presence of shrunken cells with pyknotic nuclei and perineuronal vacuolations, which were observed in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, the simultaneous administration of tramadol with cannabis resulted in a notable rise in the number of degenerated cells, which displayed reduced size, shrunken pyknotic nuclei, and perineuronal vacuolations. These results confirm the occurrence of neuronal cell damage in brain after repeated cannabis and/or tramadol administration. It is suggested that BDNF or NSE may be a useful biochemical marker for the detection of neuronal cell injury in abusers of cannabis and/or tramadol.

Dynamics of concentration of neuroinflammatory molecules in ischemic stroke

The aim of the research. To determine the level of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (β-NGF) in the blood serum of patients with ischemic stroke (atherothrombotic subtype) in the acute period and over time.Materials and methods. The study involved 60 people (50% men and 50% women), who were divided into three groups of 20 people. Group I – healthy individuals; Group II – patients with hypertensive crisis without signs of target organ damage (uncomplicated hypertensive crisis); III – patients with a verified diagnosis of atherothrombotic ischemic stroke that developed against the background of a hypertensive crisis. Patients of groups I, II and III were comparable by gender, age, II and III also by comorbid background. The average age of patients was 56,3 (48,8; 63,3) years.Results. Based on the results of the study, it was found that in individuals with uncomplicated hypertensive crisis, as well as in patients with ischemic stroke, an increase in the concentration of BDNF and β-NGF in the blood serum was recorded on the first day. TGF-β1 indicators changed only in patients with ischemic stroke. In the group of patients with ischemic stroke, an increase in BDNF, β-NGF, TGF-β1 indicators was observed from the first day from the onset of the disease and persisted throughout the study period. Positive correlations were found between the concentration of BDNF and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP), as well as between the concentration of β-NGF and the number of points on the NIHSS scale, SBP and DBP levels.Conclusion. The registered increase in the concentration of BDNF, β-NGF in patients with hypertensive crisis may indicate the activation of microglia due to damage to the brain as a target organ, even in the absence of neurological symptoms.

Dual trajectories of serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor and cognitive function in people living with HIV

This study aimed to identify the interrelationships between mature BDNF (mBDNF), precursor BDNF (proBDNF) trajectories, and cognitive performance in individuals with HIV from sub-Saharan Africa over 96 weeks following antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation. Using data from 154 participants in the ACTG 5199 study (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00096824, 2005-06-23) in Johannesburg and Harare (2006–2009), we measured serum mBDNF and proBDNF levels via ELISA and assessed cognitive performance with neuropsychological tests. Group-based trajectory modelling indicated two mBDNF trajectories—“Stable Ascent” (83.9%) and “Peak with Gradual Decline” (16.1%)—and two proBDNF trajectories—“Gradual Increase” (85.7%) and “Gradual Decline” (14.3%). These were linked to three cognitive trajectories: “Low Baseline-Slow Improvement,” “Gradual Improvement,” and “Late Surge.” The “Stable Ascent” mBDNF group showed a significant probability of “Gradual Improvement” (68%) in cognitive performance and a “Late Surge” (9.5%). In contrast, the “Peak with Gradual Decline” mBDNF trajectory saw no “Late Surge.” A “Gradual Increase” in proBDNF corresponded to a 67.7% chance of “Gradual Improvement” in cognition. Findings suggest BDNF isoforms as potential biomarkers for cognitive interventions in HIV, emphasizing that stable or increasing BDNF levels post-ART are linked to favourable cognitive outcomes. Further research is needed to develop BDNF-based cognitive health strategies to improve outcomes for people with HIV.

BDNF and proBDNF serum levels during antidepressant treatment in adolescent girls with a first-lifetime episode of depression: A prospective case-controlled study.

BDNF and proBDNF serum levels during antidepressant treatment in adolescent girls with a first-lifetime episode of depression: A prospective case-controlled study.

Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor Level and Gene Polymorphism as Risk Factors for Depression in Patients with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus- A Case-Controlled Study.

Diabetes mellitus and depression are comorbidities that can be caused by each other. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) functions as a neuronal growth factor. It maintains the functional integrity of the nervous system. To study the possible association between BDNF levels and gene polymorphism with depression in patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The Elisa technique measured BDNF, and rs6265 gene polymorphism was detected using real-time PCR. Depression was assessed utilizing a clinical interview tool designed to establish the diagnosis of depression and differentiate it from other psychiatric diseases. BDNF levels were significantly lower in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and symptoms of depression than in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and no symptoms of depression (82.6±16.1. vs. 122± 17.47, P< 0.001). There was a statistically significant difference in BDNF levels in patients with diabetes among the three genotypes of the BDNF gene (P-value < 0.001). Val/ Val carriers had the highest serum BDNF levels, and Met/ Met carriers had the lowest serum BDNF levels. Subgroup analysis showed statistically significant genotype-related differences in serum BDNF levels among the three subgroups in the Depression group. Val/ Val carriers had the highest serum BDNF levels, and Met/ Met carriers had the lowest serum BDNF levels. BDNF Val66Met polymorphism had no significant association with the presence of depression, yet there was a trend towards significance (p = 0.05). In this pilot, Low levels of BDNF were associated with depression in patients with type 2 diabetes. Carriers of the Met/ Met allele have the lowest serum BDNF levels. Multicenter studies with more participants are required.

Effects of sertraline on depressive symptoms, serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), 5-HT, and inflammatory cytokine expression in pediatric depression patients.

This study investigated the therapeutic effects of sertraline in pediatric patients diagnosed with depression, focusing on its impact on serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), serotonin (5-HT), and inflammatory cytokines. A total of 164 pediatric patients were randomly divided into two groups: the sertraline and control groups, with 82 participants in each. Depressive symptoms were evaluated at 2 and 4 weeks using the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17) and the Children's Depression Rating Scale-Revised (CDRS-R). Serum concentrations of BDNF, 5-HT, and inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α) were quantified using ELISA. Results demonstrated no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the groups. After 4 weeks, both groups showed reductions in HAMD-17 and CDRS-R scores and interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α levels, as well as increases in BDNF and 5-HT levels. Notably, at the 2-week mark, the sertraline group had significantly lower scores in both depression scales and inflammatory cytokines compared to the control group (fluoxetine treatment), indicating an early onset of action. Despite these findings, by 4 weeks, differences in HAMD-17 and CDRS-R scores, BDNF, and 5-HT levels between the two groups were no longer significant, although the sertraline group maintained lower levels of inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, the sertraline group reported higher rates of early improvement and adverse events, though no significant differences in remission or response rates were found between the groups. Overall, sertraline demonstrates effectiveness in alleviating depressive symptoms in children during the initial treatment period, potentially via mechanisms involving BDNF, 5-HT, and inflammation modulation, although it presents a less favorable safety profile compared to fluoxetine. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).

Dual Trajectories of Serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Cognitive Function in People Living with HIV.

This study aimed to identify the interrelationships between mature BDNF (mBDNF), precursor BDNF (proBDNF) trajectories, and cognitive performance in individuals with HIV from sub-Saharan Africa over 96 weeks following antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation. Using data from 154 participants in the ACTG 5199 study (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00096824, 2005-06-23) in Johannesburg and Harare (2006-2009), we measured serum mBDNF and proBDNF levels via ELISA and assessed cognitive performance with neuropsychological tests. Group-based trajectory modelling indicated two mBDNF trajectories-"Stable Ascent" (83.9%) and "Peak with Gradual Decline" (16.1%)-and two proBDNF trajectories-"Gradual Increase" (85.7%) and "Gradual Decline" (14.3%). These were linked to three cognitive trajectories: "Low Baseline-Slow Improvement," "Gradual Improvement," and "Late Surge." The "Stable Ascent" mBDNF group showed a significant probability of "Gradual Improvement" (68%) in cognitive performance and a "Late Surge" (9.5%). In contrast, the "Peak with Gradual Decline" mBDNF trajectory saw no "Late Surge." A "Gradual Increase" in proBDNF corresponded to a 67.7% chance of "Gradual Improvement" in cognition. Findings suggest BDNF isoforms as potential biomarkers for cognitive interventions in HIV, emphasizing that stable or increasing BDNF levels post-ART are linked to favourable cognitive outcomes. Further research is needed to develop BDNF-based cognitive health strategies to improve outcomes for people with HIV.

Role of Serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor as a Biomarker of Chronic Pain in Older Adults.

Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has emerged as a promising biomarker for chronic pain (CP) research and treatment. Yet, most human studies have been limited by small sample sizes, inadequate control of confounders and a lack of focus on sex and mental health differences. This study included data from 1932 community-dwelling individuals aged ≥ 65 years, randomly sampled from the Spanish general population. Serum BDNF was quantified by ELISA. CP characteristics were assessed using the European Chronic Pain Survey and classified according to electronic medical records (ICPC-2 codes). Linear regression models-adjusted for sociodemographic, lifestyle and clinical factors-and stratified analyses by sex and depression status (defined by Geriatric Depression Scale score, recent physician diagnosis or antidepressant use) were performed. Among 962 men and 970 women, mean BDNF concentrations were 18.55 (5.66) ng/mL and 19.39 (5.77) ng/mL, respectively. Most participants reported pain in multiple locations (median 3 sites, interquartile range: 2-4). In 511 participants with CP, probable musculoskeletal pain was predominant (n = 446), followed by nociplastic (n = 71), neuropathic (n = 54), visceral (n = 51) and vascular pain (n = 22). Notably, in non-depressed participants (n = 1639), women with severe or interfering pain showed lower BDNF concentrations [β coefficient (95% confidence interval) = -2.62 ng/mL (-5.03, -0.22) and -3.09 ng/mL (-4.71, -1.47), respectively] compared to those without CP-a pattern not seen in men. Conversely, among men with depression (n = 293), both severe [-5.12 g/mL (-9.26, -0.99)] and interfering [-4.95 g/mL (-8.29, -1.61)] pain were linked to lower BDNF, a trend absent in depressed women. Similar associations were observed in analyses of musculoskeletal and nociplastic pain subtypes. While serum BDNF is a promising biomarker for CP, its reliability for gauging pain severity depends on patient sex and depression status. These factors must be considered to enhance the accuracy and clinical relevance of BDNF in CP evaluation. Our study is the first to reveal that the relationship between serum BDNF and chronic pain is distinctly modulated by sex and depression. This novel insight challenges one-size-fits-all biomarker approaches and paves the way for more personalised, precision-based strategies in chronic pain diagnosis and management.

Arterial-venous differences of brain-derived neurotrophic factor isoforms across the brain and muscle after exercise at different intensities.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is essential for neuroplasticity. Exercise can induce increases in forearm venous plasma and serum BDNF, often assumed to be indicative of release from the brain. We investigated the effects of exercise on circulating levels of mature BDNF (mBDNF) and its precursor proBDNF. Sixteen healthy, physically fit adults (20-40years old) cycled for 20min at 40, 60 and 80% of , separated by 30min of rest. BDNF was analysed in blood samples from the brachial artery, internal jugular vein, femoral vein and antecubital vein. Brain/skeletal muscle exchange of BDNF, calculated as arterial-venous differences in BDNF multiplied by blood flow in the middle cerebral artery/common femoral artery, was measured simultaneously with blood sampling. Exercise intensity-dependent increases were observed in blood platelet count, forearm venous serum mBDNF and plasma proBDNF, but not in forearm venous plasma mBDNF. Brain release (or uptake) was not detected for either plasma mBDNF, serum mBDNF or plasma proBDNF. However, muscle uptake of plasma mBDNF and release of plasma proBDNF were observed after high-intensity exercise. Our findings demonstrate that exercise-dependent increases in serum mBDNF are not derived from the brain or the exercised skeletal muscle. Rather, the source of the increase appears to be the increase in platelets that are enriched with mBDNF. Furthermore, in physically fit adults, BDNF is not released from the brain into the bloodstream, after exercise, regardless of exercise intensity. Finally, changes in plasma proBDNF after exercise appear to be dependent on exercised skeletal muscle rather than brain release. KEY POINTS: Previously shown exercise-induced increases in forearm venous brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are often assumed to be indicative of release from the brain. We investigated whether exercise-induced changes in forearm venous mature BDNF (mBDNF) and precursor proBDNF are paralleled by concomitant changes in BDNF exchange over the brain and skeletal muscle. We observed exercise intensity-dependent increases in platelet count, forearm venous serum mBDNF and plasma proBDNF, but not in forearm venous plasma mBDNF. We found muscle uptake of plasma mBDNF and release of plasma proBDNF after high-intensity exercise but no exercise intensity-dependent brain exchange of either plasma mBDNF, serum mBDNF or plasma proBDNF. Our findings suggest that acute exercise-induced increases in circulating serum mBDNF may be solely a result of increased platelet count, probably due to splenic platelet release; and that exercised skeletal muscle, and not the brain, responds to high-intensity exercise by releasing plasma proBDNF.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor but not beta-secretase 1, vascular endothelial growth factor, glial fibrillary acidic protein and interleukin-1β correlate with cognitive impairment in adult persons with epilepsy: a cross-sectional single-center study from India.

This study aims to evaluate cognitive impairment utilizing the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scale, while also exploring the correlation between cognitive impairment and various serum biomarkers, including Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), Beta Secretase-1 (BACE1), Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors (VEGF), Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and Interleukin-1 (IL-1β) in adults living with epilepsy. In this study, 74 participants aged between 18 and 50 years, who were visiting neurology outpatient consultations, were included. The cognitive assessment was executed using the MoCA test. Serum levels of BDNF, BACE1, VEGF, GFAP, and IL-1β were evaluated through ELISA in patients with and without cognitive impairments. To determine the association between MoCA scores and the biomarkers, both Spearman and Pearson correlation analyses, as well as linear regression, were conducted. Among the 74 PWE, 61 exhibited cognitive impairment as determined by the MoCA assessment. Noteworthy alterations were detected across various MoCA subscales, encompassing visuospatial and executive functions, attention, language, abstraction, and delayed recall, with statistical significance established (p < 0.05). Furthermore, it was revealed that those in the cognitively impaired group presented with reduced serum BDNF levels (p < 0.05). It is important to highlight that no substantial differences were identified in the serum concentrations of BACE-1, VEGF, GFAP, and IL-1β. A moderate and statistically significant correlation was established between BDNF and the Total MoCA score (p < 0.05), in addition to BDNF's relationship with Visuospatial & Executive function (p < 0.05). In the context of regression analysis, BDNF demonstrated a significant association to the Total MoCA score (p < 0.05), a connection that persisted as significant even when adjusted for confounding factors. We conclude that adult PWE in India demonstrate a significant cognitive impairment. Further, our findings indicate that BDNF may serve as a potential biomarker for evaluating cognitive impairment in adult PWE. Further longitudinal, prospective and multi-center studies are required to confirm the same.

Comparative Analysis of Neurological Function and Prognosis After Stereotactic Aspiration and Neuroendoscopic Surgery for Hypertensive Intracerebral Hemorrhage.

In recent years, minimally invasive surgery has become a preferred treatment for hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage (HICH). This study aims to comprehensively compare the neurological function and prognosis of neuroendoscopic surgery (NS) and stereotactic aspiration (SA) in patients with HICH. A total of 247 patients with HICH admitted to Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University from April 2020 to December 2023 were included. Patients were divided into the NS group (65 cases) and the SA group (182 cases). The perioperative indicators, serum neurological function, complications, and functional prognosis were compared between the two groups. The SA group demonstrated higher hematoma clearance rate with lower hematoma residual volumes and intraoperative blood loss than the NS group (p < 0.05). Compared with these before surgery, serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels increased, neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels decreased in both groups at 1 and 3 months post-surgery (p < 0.05). The SA group showed higher BDNF and lower NSE and GFAP levels at 1 and 3 months post-surgery than the NS group (p < 0.05). Compared with these before surgery, both groups showed lower National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score and higher Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) scores at 1 and 3 months post-surgery, with the SA group performing better than the NS group post-surgery (p < 0.05). There was no difference in the complications rates between the two groups (p > 0.05). At 3- and 6-months post-surgery, the SA group showed higher Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores than the NS group (p < 0.05). At 3 months post-surgery, the SA group showed higher activities of daily living (ADL) scores than the NS group (p < 0.05), but no difference at 6 months post-surgery (p > 0.05). In the treatment of HICH, compared to NS, SA offers advantages in hematoma clearance and intraoperative bleeding reduction. Additionally, SA more effectively improves neurological function, quality of life, and cognitive ability in HICH patients.

Impact of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on clinical and cognitive outcomes, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels in treatment-resistant depression.

Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) affects approximately 30% of patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), for whom effective treatment options are limited. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has shown efficacy in alleviating depressive symptoms in TRD. However, it remains unclear if these improvements are driven or mediated by changes in cognitive function or biological markers, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This study examines the effects of rTMS on depressive symptoms, cognition, and BDNF levels, as well as the potential moderating role of lifetime suicidal attempts (LSA) on cognition and the predictive value of baseline BDNF for clinical outcomes. Twenty-five TRD patients were included, with 13 in the rTMS treatment group (receiving 20 sessions of rTMS over four weeks) and 12 as control group. Depression severity, cognitive function (Mini-Mental State Examination, Verbal Fluency, Digit Span), and serum BDNF levels were measured pre- and post-treatment. Mixed-effects linear regression models assessed clinical and biological associations. rTMS significantly reduced HAM-D (p < 0.001) and CGI (p < 0.001) scores compared to controls. Cognitive performance improved significantly in MMSE (p = 0.049) and Digit Span (p = 0.04), with no significant changes in BDNF levels (p = 0.39). LSA did not moderate cognitive outcomes, and baseline BDNF did not predict clinical improvement (p = 0.68). rTMS reduced depressive symptoms in TRD patients, with modest cognitive benefits. Baseline BDNF did not predict outcomes, though the lack of significant change suggests complex neuroplastic responses. Future studies should include larger samples and refined biomarker assessments.

DETERMINANTS OF BRAIN-DERIVED NEUROTROPHIC FACTOR IN YOUNG ADULTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Objectives: To determine the effects of body mass index, waist hip ratio, level of stress, and memory scores on brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Material and methods: Forty young adults participated in a cross-sectional study at Khyber Girls Medical College. In addition to collecting demographic information, anthropometric measurements were taken, including waist-hip ratio and body mass index (BMI). We used the Digit Span Test from the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS-III) to assess cognitive function. We assessed stress levels and anxiety using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS). Standard methods were used to measure serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: With an R-squared value of 0.532, multivariate regression revealed about 53.2% of the variance in BDNF levels. With F = 9.9 and p = 0.001, the regression model was statistically significant. Stress had a strong negative link with BDNF (B = -58.46, p = 0.001), short term memory showed an insignificantly negative relationship with BDNF (B = -6.96, p = 0.60). Waist hip ratio displayed a significant influence (B = 2664, p = 0.05), while BMI exhibited a non-significant effect (B = -8.61, p = 0.63). Conclusion: This study highlights the critical role of stress as a significant determinant of BDNF, while the waist-hip ratio also shows a meaningful relationship. The non-significant effects of BMI and memory suggest that additional factors may mediate their influence on neurotrophic levels.

Serum BDNF, depressive symptoms, sleep quality, and cognitive function: a study on their impact and predictive value for suicidal ideation in bipolar depressive disorder patients.

This study aims to investigate the factors influencing suicidal ideation in patients with bipolar depressive disorder (BDD), focusing primarily on cognitive function, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), sleep quality, and depressive symptoms. A total of 126 patients with depressive episodes of bipolar disorder and 38 healthy controls were recruited for this study. Participants were divided into suicidal ideation and non-suicidal ideation groups based on the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation-Chinese Version (BSI-CV). Depressive symptoms were assessed using the 24-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD-24), and sleep quality was evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Cognitive function was measured using the Chinese version of the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB), and serum BDNF levels were determined. 24.6% of the patients exhibited suicidal ideation. High depression scores and poor sleep quality were identified as risk factors, whereas good cognitive function and higher levels of BDNF served as protective factors. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed that serum BDNF, depressive symptoms, sleep quality, and cognitive function have significant predictive value, with a combined use of these four indicators yielding even better predictive results. Serum BDNF levels, depression scores, sleep quality scores, and cognitive function scores can be used as predictive indicators for suicidal ideation in BDD patients. The combined use of these four indicators provides optimal predictive efficacy.

Serum protein biomarkers for degenerative cervical myelopathy: a prospective study.

Delays in diagnosis are common in degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM), and there is a need for additional objective assessments of spinal cord structure and function. The objective of this study was to profile serum protein biomarkers in DCM and determine their potential diagnostic and prognostic utility. Patients with clinically diagnosed DCM (n = 20) and scheduled to undergo decompressive surgery were prospectively enrolled from July 2022 to August 2023. Serum neuronal and inflammatory proteins in the patients were quantified before surgery and 3 months after surgery. Serum protein levels were compared between the DCM patients and healthy controls (n = 10). Serum biomarkers were also related to pre- and postsurgical functional measures. DCM patients had a median age of 70 years, and healthy controls had a median age of 65 years. Presurgical neurofilament light chain (NfL; 30.2 vs 11.2 pg/ml, p = 0.01) and interleukin (IL)-6 (2.9 vs 1.2, p = 0.003) were significantly higher in DCM patients than in controls. Presurgical NfL, IL-6, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) best differentiated DCM and controls (p < 0.001). At 3 months after surgery, serum BDNF (p = 0.001), amyloid beta 42 (p = 0.042), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (p = 0.007) were significantly increased compared to presurgical values. Presurgical serum NfL was significantly associated with improvement in pinch strength after surgery (p = 0.03). Inflammatory biomarkers were linked to improvement in the neck pain-related disability and upper limb function. Presurgical serum levels of NfL, IL-6, and BDNF show potential as diagnostic markers for DCM. Presurgical serum biomarkers of neuronal damage and inflammation predict early postsurgical functional outcomes in DCM.

Effects of Probiotics as Adjunctive Therapy to Fluoxetine on Depression Severity and Serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, Cortisol, and Adrenocorticotropic Hormone in Patients With Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

Probiotics may improve mood, but their role as adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder (MDD) is not well understood. This study examines the effects of probiotics on depression severity, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), and cortisol levels in MDD patients. Fifty medication-free MDD patients were randomized to receive probiotics with fluoxetine (n = 25) or placebo with fluoxetine (n = 25) for 8 weeks. Depression severity was assessed using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS-24), and fasting blood samples were collected at baseline and study conclusion. Forty-four patients completed the trial. The probiotic group showed a significant reduction in depression severity compared with the placebo group (p = 0.001). No significant differences were observed in serum cortisol (p = 0.46) and ACTH levels (p = 0.44). Plasma BDNF levels increased slightly in the probiotic group but were not statistically significant. Probiotic supplementation with fluoxetine significantly reduces depression severity in MDD patients.

Effects of scalp acupuncture on the limb function recovery of hemiplegia after moderate to severe traumatic brain injury.

Hemiplegia, a common neurological consequence of moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) significantly impacts patients' motor and daily living functions. In China, standard treatments for hemiplegia include physical rehabilitation and traditional acupuncture. Scalp acupuncture, rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, has gained attention as a potential alternative. This study compared the efficacy of scalp acupuncture combined with conventional therapy versus conventional therapy alone in improving limb function recovery in patients with hemiplegia after moderate to severe TBI. This open-label, single-site, parallel-group randomized trial included 117 patients with hemiplegia post-TBI. Patients were randomized into a control group (n = 58) receiving conventional interventions, and a scalp acupuncture group (n = 59) receiving scalp acupuncture in addition to conventional care. Scalp acupuncture was administered daily for 8 weeks using standardized acupuncture points. Outcome measures included the Brunnstrom Hemiplegia Motor Function Scale, the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) scale, the modified Barthel Index (MBI), cerebral blood flow assessment (via color Doppler ultrasonography), and serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. The scalp acupuncture group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in Brunnstrom scale scores, with higher proportions of patients achieving advanced recovery levels (P = 0.015). FMA and MBI scores showed superior improvements in motor function and daily living abilities in the scalp acupuncture group compared to controls (P < 0.05). Enhanced cerebral blood flow velocities and volumes were observed in the scalp acupuncture group, particularly in the anterior and middle cerebral arteries (P < 0.01). Serum BDNF levels were significantly elevated in the scalp acupuncture group post-treatment, suggesting enhanced neural repair. This study provides evidence that scalp acupuncture combined with conventional therapy can significantly improve motor function, daily living abilities, and neural recovery markers in patients with hemiplegia following moderate to severe TBI. These findings warrant larger, multicenter trials to evaluate the long-term efficacy of scalp acupuncture and to determine its role as a potential gold standard for hemiplegia treatment in neurological rehabilitation.

Diagnostic value of serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neuronspecific enolase (NSE), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), plasma viscosity (PV) as well as fibrinogen (FIB) in acute cerebral infarction patients

Objective: To explore the Diagnostic value of serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neuronspecific enolase (NSE), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), plasma viscosity (PV) as well as fibrinogen (FIB) in patients receiving butylphthalide and sodium chloride injection in combination with atorvastatin calcium in acute cerebral infarction patients. Methods: Eighty ACI patients accepted therapy in our hospital from January 2022 to January 2024 were included to be study objects, followed by dividing into control group (CG) and study group (SG). The CG was given atorvastatin calcium tablets. On the basis of the CG, the SG accepted butylphthalide and sodium chloride injection. The clinical efficacy, neurological impairment, activity of daily living ability, hemorheological indicators, neurobiochemical indicators, and occurrence of adverse reactions in 2 groups were compared. Results: Relative to the CG, the total effective clinical effect rate in the SG presented elevation (P&lt;0.05). After therapy, the NIHSS score in the SG presented reduction relative to the CG, BI score in the SG presented higher relative to the CG (P&lt;0.05), the whole blood high shear viscosity, whole blood low shear viscosity, PV, HCT as well as FIB levels in the SG presented reduction relative to the CG (P&lt;0.05), the improvements of BDNF, NSE and GFAP levels in the SG were superior to the CG (P&lt;0.05), and the occurrence of adverse reactions between 2 groups was no significant (P&gt;0.05). Conclusion: Butylphthalide sodium chloride injection in combination with atorvastatin calcium tablets can improve the total therapeutic response rate, improve neurological impairment, promote patients’ daily life ability, improve cerebral hemodynamics and neurobiochemical indexes in the therapy of ACI patients, which is worthy for clinical promotion.

NMDAR2B/PKA/CREB signaling pathway contributes to esophageal neuropathic pain in gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Esophageal hypersensitivity is an important cause of refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease, in which patients do not respond to standard acid-suppressive therapy and suffer from continuous noncardiac chest pain and regurgitation. The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) may play a crucial role in the development of visceral hypersensitivity in functional gastrointestinal disorders. However, the specific mechanisms of visceral hypersensitivity in upper digestive tract diseases remain poorly understood. To investigate the role of the NMDAR2B/protein kinase A (PKA)/cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) signaling pathway in the development of esophageal neuropathic pain associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Thirty-six 6-week-old specific pathogen free rats were randomly assigned to six groups: the control, model, model + NMDAR agonist, model + NMDAR antagonist, model + PKA antagonist, and model + NMDAR antagonist + PKA agonist groups, with six rats in each group. The model was induced via an intraperitoneal injection of ovalbumin for sensitization along with local esophageal stimulation. Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting were utilized to assess the expression levels of NMDAR2B signaling pathway-related proteins in the cingulate gyrus, dorsal thalamus, spinal dorsal horn, and peripheral esophageal tissues. RT-PCR was used to measure the corresponding mRNA expression, and ELISA was used to determine the serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentration. Behavioral scoring was performed during balloon distention and acid perfusion of the lower esophagus. Compared with the control group, the model group presented significantly increased expression levels of the NMDAR2B, PKA, CREB, BDNF, substance P, and calcitonin gene-related peptide proteins and mRNAs in the cingulate gyrus, dorsal thalamus, spinal dorsal horn, and lower esophagus (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the model + NMDAR agonist group exhibited even higher expression levels of these proteins and mRNAs (P < 0.05), whereas the model + NMDAR antagonist and model + PKA antagonist groups presented lower expression levels (P < 0.05). The model + NMDAR antagonist + PKA agonist group presented higher expression levels than did the model + NMDAR antagonist group (P < 0.05). The changes in the serum BDNF concentration and behavioral score during balloon distention and acid perfusion were consistent with these changes in expression. The NMDAR2B signaling pathway plays a critical role in the development of neuropathic pain in GERD through the PKA/CREB/BDNF pathway.

Impact of Cognitive-Aerobic Exercise Training on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, Dual-Tasking Abilities, and Mood State in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis

Impact of Cognitive-Aerobic Exercise Training on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, Dual-Tasking Abilities, and Mood State in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis