BDNF : brain derived neurotrophic factor
Description
The BDNF (brain derived neurotrophic factor) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 11.
The BDNF gene provides instructions for producing a protein found in the brain and spinal cord called brain-derived neurotrophic factor. This protein is essential for the survival of nerve cells (neurons) by promoting their growth, maturation (differentiation), and maintenance. In the brain, BDNF is active at the connections between nerve cells (synapses), where cell-to-cell communication takes place. These synapses can change and adapt over time in response to experience, a characteristic called synaptic plasticity. BDNF helps regulate synaptic plasticity, which is crucial for learning and memory. BDNF is also found in brain regions that control eating, drinking, and body weight, suggesting its involvement in the management of these functions.
BDNF is a crucial signaling molecule that triggers a series of reactions downstream of the NTRK2 receptor. During development, BDNF plays a vital role in the survival and differentiation of specific nerve cell populations in both the peripheral and central nervous systems. It contributes to axonal growth, guiding axons to their correct targets, and influencing the growth and structure of dendrites. In mature brains, BDNF is a key regulator of synaptic transmission and plasticity, impacting how signals are transmitted between neurons across synapses. This includes roles in long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD), two essential processes for learning and memory. BDNF also influences short-term synaptic plasticity and helps maintain the intrinsic excitability of neurons.
BDNF is also known as ANON2, BULN2.
