Serum level of Brain-derived Neurotropic Factor in major depression disorder

Abstract

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a highly disabling chronic mood disorder. Both biological and environmental factors had been implicated in the pathogenesis of MDD. The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was proved to be important for neurogenesis, neuronal survival, normal maturation of neural pathways as well as memory consolidation. In this regard, the aim of the present study was to assess serum BDNF among major depression disorder (MDD) patients in comparison to healthy controls .In addition to investigate the role of anti-depressant therapy on BDNF levels. This study was conducted on 60 patients attending at the Instituate of Psychiatry at Ain Shams University Hospitals. In addition to 40 apparently healthy persons served as healthy control group. Serum BDNF Samples were assayed for all subjects. For all patients BDNF was assayed before and after one month of therapy.