Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a protein encoded in humans by the BDNF gene on chromosome 11.
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor acts on certain neurons in the central and peripheral nervous systems, contributing to the maintenance and survival of existing neurons and enhancing the development and differentiation of new neurons and synapses. BDNF in the brain is active in the hippocampus, cortex, and forebrain, vital to learning, memory, and higher-order thinking. At the same time, its effect appears to be particularly important for long-term memory.
Although the vast majority of neurons in the brains of higher mammals (and humans) are formed before birth, parts of the adult brain retain the ability to develop new neurons from nerve stem cells through a process known as neurogenesis. Neurotrophins are proteins that help stimulate and control neurogenesis, while BDNF is one of the most active neurotrophins.
Some types of physical exercise have been shown to significantly increase (triple) the synthesis of BDNF in the human brain. This phenomenon is partly responsible for exercise-induced neurogenesis and for improving cognitive function. Niacin also appears to increase BDNF levels.
Several studies have shown possible links between BDNF and pathological conditions, such as depression, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, Rett syndrome, dementia as well as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa.
