Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a protein encoded by the BDNF gene in humans. It supports the survival of neurons in the central and peripheral nervous systems. BDNF functions as a neurotransmitter modulator and engages in neuronal plasticity. BDNF protein encourages the growth and maturation (differentiation) of new neurons and synapses. The hippocampus, cortex, and basal forebrain responsible for learning, memory, and higher thinking, actively host the BDNF biomarker. The kidneys, retina, motor neurons, saliva, and skeletal muscle are also homes for the BDNF protein. When searching for ‘What is BDNF’, you can also search for its aliases – Abreneurin, ANON2, and BULN2.
BDNF: Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration, and Metabolic Biomarker
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic factor is vital for long-term memory. The brain retains the capability to grow neurons from stem cells, even as most human neurons have prenatal formation. Neurogenesis is this process of stimulated and controlled neural growth for the development, maintenance, and function of vertebrate nervous systems for improved cognitive function. BDNF biomarker is one of the most active neutrophils, which are proteins that aid the stimulation of neurogenesis. Other researched BDNF functions and effects include synaptic plasticity, inflammation and immunity, growth of cardiac and endothelial cells, lipid metabolism, etc. Specific exercises, such as treadmill in mice and aerobics in humans, are considered BDNF growth factor.
