BDNF Levels and Neuroplasticity in Mood Disorders
Summary
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a central role in modulating neuroplasticity, the capacity of neuronal networks to adapt structurally and functionally in response to experience. In mood disorders such as major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder, both central and peripheral BDNF levels are often reduced, reflecting impaired synaptic remodelling and neurogenesis, particularly in hippocampal and prefrontal circuits. Genetic variants and epigenetic modifications of the BDNF gene can influence its expression and contribute to individual differences in vulnerability, symptom severity and treatment response. Peripheral measurements of BDNF, typically from serum or plasma, offer a window into central neurotrophic activity, although methodological heterogeneity remains a challenge. Restoration of BDNF expression has been observed following successful pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, supporting the neurotrophic hypothesis of depression. Beyond symptom alleviation, enhancement of BDNF-driven plasticity may underpin resilience and cognitive recovery. Emerging work seeks to integrate molecular biomarkers, neuroimaging and clinical phenotypes to refine personalised therapeutic strategies, underscoring the global significance of BDNF as both a mechanistic target and potential biomarker in mood disorder management.
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BDNF Levels and Neuroplasticity in Mood Disorders publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in bdnf levels and neuroplasticity in mood disorders across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
BDNF: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a protein that promotes neuronal survival, growth and synaptic plasticity.
Neuroplasticity: The ability of the nervous system to reorganise structure and function in response to experience or injury.
proBDNF: The precursor form of BDNF that can have distinct, often opposing, effects to mature BDNF on neuronal function.
TrkB: Tropomyosin receptor kinase B, the principal receptor that mediates mature BDNF signalling.
Peripheral biomarker: A measurable indicator in accessible tissues (such as blood) reflecting central nervous system activity.
MDD: Major depressive disorder, a clinical condition characterised by persistent low mood, anhedonia and impaired cognitive function.
TRD: Treatment-resistant depression, a form of depressive illness that does not respond adequately to standard therapies.
References
- The role of BDNF in major depressive disorder, related clinical features, and antidepressant treatment: Insight from meta-analyses. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews (2023).
- Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) as a Predictor of Treatment Response in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): A Systematic Review. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2023).
- Plasma Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Levels in First-Episode and Recurrent Major Depression and before and after Bright Light Therapy in Treatment-Resistant Depression. Biomolecules (2023).
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