Genetic Predisposition - Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor

Question 1

BDNF is not only related to depression, it is also related to?

Answer 1

multiple psychiatric disorders

Question 2

the ability of the serotonin system to adapt and change in response to various stimuli is influenced by what?

Answer 2

BDNF, all throughout life

Question 3

during brain development, the cyclic process promotes what?

Answer 3

outgrowth, synapse formation and survival of serotonin neurons and the eventual interventions of multiple brain regions

Question 4

activation of serotonin receptors stimulate the expression of what?

Answer 4

BDNF factor gene

Question 5

BDNF may be the link between what?

Answer 5

stress, neurogenesis and hippocampal atrophy in depression

Question 6

what is BDNF?

Answer 6

is a growth factor (protein found high in concentrations in brain) that plays major role in birth, survival and maturation of brain cells during development

Question 7

what is BDNF important for?

Answer 7

neuronal cell growth as well as the synaptic changes that occur through a persons life

Question 8

how does BDNF contribute to these processes?

Answer 8

activates DNA-binding factors that stimulate the genes involved in serotonin function, such as serotonin transporter and tryptophan hydrolase, the serotonin synthesizing enzyme

Question 9

do people with MDD have higher or lower levels of BDNF?

Answer 9

lower