BDNF
BDNF
BDNF (pronounced as /biː.diː.ɛn.ɛf/), or Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, is a protein that, in humans, is encoded by the BDNF gene. BDNF is a member of the Neurotrophin family of growth factors, which are related to the canonical Nerve Growth Factor (NGF).
Etymology
The term "BDNF" is an acronym for "Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor". The term "neurotrophic" comes from the Greek words "neuron", meaning nerve, and "trophe", meaning nourishment. Thus, BDNF is a factor derived from the brain that provides nourishment to neurons.
Function
BDNF is found in the brain and periphery and helps to support the survival of existing neurons, and encourage the growth and differentiation of new neurons and synapses. In the brain, it is active in areas vital to learning, memory, and higher thinking, such as the Hippocampus, Cortex, and Basal Forebrain.
Related Terms
- Neurotrophin: A family of proteins that induce the survival, development, and function of neurons.
- Nerve Growth Factor (NGF): A neurotrophic factor involved in the regulation of growth, maintenance, proliferation, and survival of certain target neurons.
- Hippocampus: A complex brain structure embedded deep into temporal lobe. It has a major role in learning and memory.
- Cortex: The outer layer of the cerebrum, composed of folded grey matter and playing an important role in consciousness.
- Basal Forebrain: A region located at the base of the brain that is involved in the production of acetylcholine, which is critical for memory and learning.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on BDNF
- Wikipedia's article - BDNF
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