Brain-derived neurotrophic factor, behavior,
and new directions for the treatment of mental disorders
by
Russo-Neustadt A.
Department of Biological Sciences,
California State University, Los Angeles, CA.r
Semin Clin Neuropsychiatry 2003 Apr;8(2):109-18

ABSTRACT

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a member of the neurotrophin family of survival-promoting molecules, plays an important role in the growth, development, maintenance, and function of several neuronal systems. The purpose of this article is to point out evidence for the involvement of this molecule in the maintenance of normal cognitive and emotional functioning, and to outline recent developments using BDNF, or the regulation of endogenous BDNF expression, in the treatment of a variety of mental disorders. This article discusses the important role of BDNF in neuronal growth and survival, in modulating neurotransmission, in activity-directed synaptic remodeling, and in adult neurogenesis. We next outline evidence for the involvement of BDNF in complex behaviors such as learning, feeding, locomotion, responses to painful stimuli, and the management of severe stress. Finally, our review focuses on the involvement of BDNF in treatments for clinical depression and other chronic neurodegenerative processes. We discuss the way that current and future treatment development can be guided by our growing understanding of this molecule's actions in the brain and the ways the expression of BDNF can be regulated.

BDNF
CREB
Statins
Options
Exercise
21st Century
CREB and BDNF
Antidepressants
Atypical depression
Retarded depression
BDNF and new brain cells
Nootropics ('smart drugs')
How do antidepressants work?
Creatine as an antidepressant
Antidepressants and new brain cells
Social isolation selectively reduces BDNF
Runners' high: exercise and endogenous opioid release
AMPA receptors and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)
Effects of electroconvulsive seizures and antidepressants on BDNF
The highs and lows of AMPA-type glutamate receptor subunits in the NaC
Environmental enrichment and voluntary exercise massively increase neurogenesis

Refs
and further reading

HOME
HedWeb
Nootropics
cocaine.wiki
Future Opioids
BLTC Research
MDMA/Ecstasy
Superhapiness?
Utopian Surgery?
The Abolitionist Project
The Hedonistic Imperative
The Reproductive Revolution
Critique of Huxley's Brave New World

The Good Drug Guide
The Responsible Parent's Guide
To Healthy Mood Boosters For All The Family