The Role of BDNF in MS Remains Ambiguous

Current evidence regarding the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) is largely inconclusive, according to a review article published in Frontiers in Neurology.

“However, despite the inconclusive results and technical difficulties, the author thinks that there is emerging evidence for a neuroprotective and neuroregenerative effect of BDNF in MS, as studies reporting a protective effect outweighed studies assuming detrimental effects of BDNF,” wrote Michelle Maiworm of the University Hospital Frankfurt Department of Neurology in Frankfurt, Germany. “BDNF could therefore be a promising biomarker in the field of MS.”

The review article provides an overview of studies regarding BDNF in different MS areas. Studies suggesting BDNF’s positive role in cognitive function tend to outweigh those suggesting a harmful effect, according to the article. Likewise, studies into its influence on disability favor a positive over a negative effect.

Even investigations into the Val66Met polymorphism have not conclusively determined whether the single nucleotide polymorphism is protective or harmful. Nevertheless, most hypothesize a protective effect through modulation of BDNF secretion and anti-inflammatory impacts, Maiworm reported. The author suggests the lack of a standardized method for measuring BDNF could play a part in the lack of consensus.

“BDNF can be measured in serum as well as normal and platelet-poor plasma,” Maiworm wrote. “However, as no correlations between serum and plasma BDNF concentrations could be found, it has to be assumed that the material used has a relevant influence on the study results.” The article recommended continued investigation into the relevance of BDNF.

“Further studies with larger cohorts and longitudinal follow-ups are needed to improve our understanding of the effects of BDNF in the central nervous system,” she wrote, “especially in the context of MS.”

Reference

Maiworm M. The relevance of BDNF for neuroprotection and neuroplasticity in multiple sclerosis. Frontiers in Neurology. 2024;15:1385042. doi:10.3389/fneur.2024.1385042