Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)

Authors

Affiliations

Nate Yomogida, B.S., SPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

B.S. in Kinesiology

Chloë Kerstein, B.S., SPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

B.A. in Neuroscience

Mechanism

Figure 1: Pathways that BDNF activates¹

Function

Mechanics

• Control of neuronal development²
• Control of glial development²
• Neuroprotection²
• Modulation of both short- and long-lasting synaptic interactions²

Practical function

These are are critical for cognition and memory²

Practical function

Cognition and memory²

• Decrease mental stress two unique nutrients which have been shown to decrease mental stress and support cognition

²

Dietary sources

theorized to come from dietary brain

References

1.

Ju W. Neuroscience. University of Toronto https://med.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Pharmacology_and_Neuroscience/Neuroscience_(Ju)

2.

Kowiański P, Lietzau G, Czuba E, Waśkow M, Steliga A, Moryś J. BDNF: A Key Factor with Multipotent Impact on Brain Signaling and Synaptic Plasticity. Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology. 2018;38(3):579-593. doi:10.1007/s10571-017-0510-4