Role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in depression-related behaviour - could it explain the higher incidence in females?

Anita E. Autry, Lisa M Monteggia

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is known to have a significant genetic component and is twice as prevalent in women as in men. However, little is known concerning the biological underpinnings of the relationship of gender to MDD. Recent data suggest that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is essential for normal depression behaviour and antidepressant efficacy and, furthermore, may contribute to gender differences in depression-related behaviour. Here, we will review data regarding the role of BDNF in mediating depression-related behaviour and antidepressant efficacy, with emphasis on how it may impact gender differences observed in MDD.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)102-104
Number of pages3
JournalEuropean Psychiatric Review
Volume4
Issue number2
StatePublished - Dec 2011

Keywords

  • Animal model
  • Behaviour
  • Brain-derived neurotrophic factor
  • Depression
  • Gender
  • Major depressive disorder
  • Stress

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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