The aging-dependent contribution of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) to psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a vital factor for developing and maintaining neuronal systems, as well as driving plasticity, significantly influencing various functions within the mammalian brain.Its involvement in neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders has garnered attention due to its viability as a target for therapy.This review examines how BDNF is involved in various neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases, including but not limited to Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, highlighting its role in disease pathogenesis.Alterations in BDNF expression are linked to the pathogenesis of these disorders, underscoring its importance in neuronal health.Despite inconsistent findings regarding BDNF levels in different conditions, understanding its mechanisms may lead to effective treatment approaches.Upcoming research efforts should prioritize clarifying the complex regulatory networks of BDNF, identifying reliable biomarkers, and exploring innovative therapeutic approaches to modulate BDNF signaling for treating neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders.