scholarly journals Relationship between exclusive breastfeeding and brain-derived neurotrophic factor in children

PLoS ONE ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 16 (3) ◽  
pp. e0248023
Author(s):  
Carlos Berlanga-Macías ◽  
Mairena Sánchez-López ◽  
Montserrat Solera-Martínez ◽  
Ana Díez-Fernández ◽  
Inmaculada Ballesteros-Yáñez ◽  
...  

Objective A positive relationship between breastfeeding and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in infants has been suggested due to the presence of BDNF in human milk. This study aimed to determine the relationship between exclusive breastfeeding and BDNF serum levels in Spanish schoolchildren. Methods A cross-sectional analysis including 202 schoolchildren, aged eight to 11 years, from Cuenca, Spain, was conducted. Information on sociodemographic and anthropometric variables, sexual maturation, birth weight and exclusive breastfeeding (‘no exclusive breastfeeding’, and exclusive breastfeeding for ≤6 and >6 months), and BDNF serum levels using an ELISA method were obtained. Covariance analyses (ANCOVA) were conducted to examine the relationship between serological BDNF and exclusive breastfeeding after controlling for potential confounders. Results ANCOVA models showed no significant differences in BDNF levels between children who were exclusively breastfed for more than six months versus those who were not (p > 0.05). No significant differences were observed by age group (eight to nine years versus 10 to 11 years; p > 0.05). Additionally, no clear negative trend in BDNF serum levels according to sexual maturation categories was found (p > 0.05). Conclusion These findings suggest that exclusive breastfeeding does not have a significant positive association on BDNF from eight to 11 years, since children who were exclusively breastfed did not have significantly higher BDNF levels than those who were not exclusively breastfed. Likewise, BDNF levels were not found to be negatively affected by hormonal development. Future research should examine the influence of exclusive breastfeeding on BDNF over the different developmental stages.

2011 ◽  
Vol 26 (S2) ◽  
pp. 1148-1148
Author(s):  
G. Martinotti ◽  
V. Ricci ◽  
M. Di Nicola ◽  
C. Caltagirone ◽  
P. Bria ◽  
...  

It has been proposed that deficits in the production and the utilization of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may contribute to the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. At the same time, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been shown to induce a robust increase of BDNF protein in animal models. These findings suggest that one putative mechanism of action of ECT is the regulation of BDNF and/or related neurotrophins. In this case report a 54-year-old man with severe treatment-resistant schizophrenic symptoms was treated with ECT. In order to evaluate the effect of ECT on BDNF serum levels, we collected a blood sample before each ECT session. During the course of ECT treatment the paranoid and hallucinatory symptoms gradually improved while BDNF levels increased over time. In addition, there was a general improvement of its positive and negative schizophrenic symptoms and depressive state.In conclusion, this case report further validates the therapeutic efficacy of ECT in schizophrenic patients with inadequate or poor response to traditional treatments. Moreover, ECT therapeutic effect is associated with an increase in BDNF serum levels. Further studies are needed to characterize the relationship between BDNF and ECT in patients with schizophrenia symptoms.


2021 ◽  
Vol 8 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jean-Christophe Bélanger ◽  
Véronique Bouchard ◽  
Jessica Le Blanc ◽  
Louisia Starnino ◽  
Mélanie Welman ◽  
...  

Background: Platelet hyperactivity is deleterious in coronary artery disease (CAD), requiring lifelong antiplatelet therapy, and is associated with worse cognitive outcomes. Upon activation, platelets release Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a neurotrophin protective against cognitive decline. Given these apparently opposing effects of platelet activation on cognitive health, we investigated whether BDNF levels intercede in the relationship between platelet activation and cognitive function; and whether this relationship is moderated by the presence of CAD.Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 1,280 participants with (n = 673) and without CAD (n = 607) completed the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Plasma BDNF and soluble P-selectin (a marker of platelet activity) levels were assessed using multiplex flow cytometry.Results: In a mediation model, platelet activity was correlated with higher plasma BDNF concentrations (b = 0.53, p < 0.0001). The relationship between sP-selectin and BDNF concentrations was stronger for individuals without CAD (b = 0.71, p < 0.0001) than for CAD participants (b = 0.43, p < 0.0001; pinteraction <0.0001). Higher BDNF concentrations were associated with higher MoCA scores (b = 0.26, p = 0.03). The overall effect of platelet activity on cognitive performance was non-significant (total effect: b = −0.12, p = 0.13), and became significant when accounting for BDNF as a mediating factor (direct effect: b = −0.26, p = 0.01). This resulted in a positive indirect effect of platelet activity (via BDNF) on MoCA scores (b = 0.14, CI 95% 0.02–0.30), that was smaller in CAD participants than in non-CAD participants [Δ −0.07 (95% CI −0.14 to −0.01)].Conclusions: BDNF released from activated platelets could be a mitigating factor in a negative association between platelet activity and cognitive function.


2020 ◽  
Vol 41 (Supplement_2) ◽  
Author(s):  
R.A Montone ◽  
M Camilli ◽  
M Russo ◽  
M Del Buono ◽  
F Gurguglione ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophine that plays a key role in the regulation of both central and peripheral nervous system. Moreover, BDNF is secreted in multiple tissues and exerts systemic, autocrine, and paracrine effects in the cardiovascular system. Of importance, BDNF expression was enhanced in macrophages and smooth muscle cells in atherosclerotic coronary arteries and may be involved in thrombus formation. Thus, BDNF has been suggested as an important link between inflammation and thrombosis, potentially involved in the pathogenesis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Purpose In our study we aimed at assessing serum levels of BDNF in patients with ACS, evaluating differences according to clinical presentation [ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) vs. Non-ST-segment elevation ACS (NSTE-ACS)]. Moreover, we assessed the presence of optical coherence (OCT)-defined macrophage infiltrates (MØI) in the culprit vessel of ACS patients and evaluated their relationship with BDNF levels. Methods ACS patients were prospectively selected. Blood samples were collected at admission and serum levels of BDNF were subsequently assessed. Presence of OCT-defined MØI along the culprit vessel was assessed. Results 166 ACS patients were enrolled [mean age 65.3±11.9 years, 125 (75.3%) male, 109 STEMI, 57 NSTE-ACS]. Serum levels of BDNF were higher among STEMI patients compared with NSTE-ACS [median (IQR) 2.48 pg/mL (1.54–3.34) vs. 2.12 pg/mL (1.34–2.47), p=0.007], while C-reactive protein levels did not differ between the two groups. OCT assessment was performed in 53 patients and MØI were detected in 27 patients. Of importance, patients with MØI in the culprit vessel had higher levels of BDNF compared with patients without MØI [median (IQR) 2.23 pg/mL (1.38–2.53) vs. 1.41 pg/mL (0.93–2.07), p=0.023], while C-reactive protein levels did not differ between the two groups. Of note, at multivariate regression analysis BDNF levels were independent predictor of MØI [OR: 2.20; 95% CI (1.02–4.74), p=0.043]. Conclusions Serum levels of BDNF may reliable identify the presence of local macrophage inflammatory infiltrates in patients with ACS. Moreover, BDNF levels are higher in patients with STEMI compared with NSTE-ACS. Taken together, these data suggest that BDNF may represent an interesting link between local inflammatory activation and enhanced thrombosis in ACS. BDNF serum levels Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None


2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 343-343
Author(s):  
Abbey Hamlin ◽  
A Zarina Kraal ◽  
Laura Zahodne

Abstract Social engagement may confer cognitive benefits in older adulthood, but studies have typically been restricted to largely non-Hispanic White (NHW) samples. Levels of social engagement vary across race such that NHW report larger social networks, more frequent participation in social activities, and greater social support than non-Hispanic Blacks (NHB). Associations between social engagement and cognition may also vary by race, but research is sparse. The current cross-sectional study examined associations between different aspects of social engagement and episodic memory performance, as well as interactions between social engagement and race among NHB and NHW participants in the Michigan Cognitive Aging Project (N = 247; 48.4% NHB; age = 64.19 ± 2.92). Social engagement (network size, activities, support) was self-reported. Episodic memory was a z-score composite of immediate, delayed, and recognition trials of a list-learning task. Separate hierarchical linear regression models quantified interactions between race and each of the three social engagement variables on episodic memory, controlling for sociodemographics, depressive symptoms, and health conditions. Results showed a main effect of more frequent social activity on better episodic memory, as well as an interaction between race and social support indicating a significant positive association in NHB but not NHW. These preliminary findings suggest that participating in social activities may be equally beneficial for episodic memory across NHB and NHW older adults and that social support may be particularly beneficial for NHB. Future research is needed to determine the potential applications of these results in reducing cognitive inequalities through the development of culturally-relevant interventions.


2016 ◽  
Vol 65 ◽  
pp. 150-155 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kai Zhang ◽  
Haifeng Jiang ◽  
Qiaoyang Zhang ◽  
Jiang Du ◽  
Yuan Wang ◽  
...  

2010 ◽  
Vol 14 (3) ◽  
pp. 220-222 ◽  
Author(s):  
Reiji Yoshimura ◽  
Atsuko Sugita-Ikenouchi ◽  
Hikaru Hori ◽  
Wakako Umene-Nakano ◽  
Kenji Hayashi ◽  
...  

2012 ◽  
Vol 136 ◽  
pp. S132-S133
Author(s):  
Anna Leszczynska-Rodziewicz ◽  
Maria Skibinska ◽  
Pawel Kapelski ◽  
Aleksandra Rajewska-Rager ◽  
Joanna Pawlak ◽  
...  

2011 ◽  
Vol 164 (2) ◽  
pp. 189-196 ◽  
Author(s):  
Diana G Taekema ◽  
Carolina H Y Ling ◽  
Gerard Jan Blauw ◽  
Carel G Meskers ◽  
Rudi G J Westendorp ◽  
...  

ObjectiveIn aging populations, poor handgrip strength has been associated with physical disability and mortality. IGF1 is an important mediator of muscle growth and regeneration affecting muscle function. We studied the relationship between circulating levels of IGF1, its binding protein 3 (IGFBP3), and handgrip strength and physical performance in middle-aged- and oldest-old subjects.DesignCross-sectional analysis in two different cohorts composed of middle-aged- (n=672, mean 63.9±6.7 years) and oldest-old subjects (n=272, all 89 years).MethodsHandgrip strength, functional performance and ability, and serum levels of IGF1 and IGFBP3 were measured in all subjects and analyzed by linear regression for men and women separately.ResultsIGF1 and IGFBP3 levels declined with chronological age and were positively associated with handgrip strength in middle-aged- and oldest-old women (both, P<0.05), but not in men of either age group. Furthermore, higher serum levels of IGF1 were associated with slower walking speed in oldest-old men (P=0.012), and serum levels of IGFBP3 were positively associated with activities of daily living in the oldest-old women (P=0.002).ConclusionThe significant relationship between IGF1 levels and muscle strength found in women but not in men suggests a gender-specific influence of IGF1 on muscle strength. Further studies are necessary to test the relationship with physical performance.


2021 ◽  
Vol 80 (Suppl 1) ◽  
pp. 47.2-47
Author(s):  
C. Gioia ◽  
B. Lucchino ◽  
C. Iannuccelli ◽  
G. Dolcini ◽  
M. DI Franco

Background:Fibromyalgia (FM) is a common rheumatic disease characterized by chronic widespread pain, sleep and mood disorders. A higher prevalence of FM in women compared with men is well known, although the specific differences in clinical manifestations related to gender are still poorly defined. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is an endogenous growth factor that gained attention for its potential as biomarker of several diseases, including FM and depression.Objectives:The aims of this study were to investigate gender-related difference among males and females affected by FM in clinical manifestations, depressive features and BDNF serum level, evaluating also the diagnostic potential of the latter.Methods:We consecutively enrolled adult patients affected by FM (ACR 2016) referring to our out-patient clinic. Each subject underwent clinical and answered to questionnaires for the severity of FM symptoms (Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, R-FIQ) and depressive symptoms (Beck Depression Inventory-II, BDI-II). We collected blood samples from a subgroup of patients of both sexes, matched for age, for BDNF serum level dosage through ELISA. BDNF levels were assessed also in a control group, matched for sex and age.Results:The cohort was composed by 201 FM patients (172 F, 29 M), mean age 49.13. Females showed higher values of R-FIQ total score (p=0,0005) as well the specific items of the R-FIQ for pain (p=0,013), fatigue (p=0,014), memory problems (p=0,007), tenderness to touch (p<0,0001), balance problems (p<0,0001) and sensitivity to environmental stimuli (p=0,012) when compared with males (fig. 1). There was no difference in BDI-II between males and females, but notably male patients reported a significantly higher frequency of coexisting depressive disorder (p=0,038) (fig. 2). Serum BDNF levels were evaluated in 40 FM patients and 40 healthy controls (HC) (F:M 1:1). BDNF levels were significantly lower in FM patients compared with HC (p<0,0001). Among FM patients, BDNF levels were lower in males compared with females (p<0,0001) (fig.3). BDNF did not correlate with any clinical and clinimetric parameter. BDNF showed a good diagnostic performance (AUC=0,89, CI95%=0,82-0,9630, p<0,0001) (fig. 4). At a cut-off value <6,47 ng/dl, BDNF showed a specificity of 75% and a sensibility of 92,31%,(CI 95%=79,68-97.35) for FM identification (LR=3,692).Conclusion:FM clinical manifestations are strongly dependant from gender. While females present a more severe disease and a higher burden of symptoms, mood disorders tend to be a major characteristic of males with FM. Reduced BDNF serum levels have been reported as typical of depressive disorders. Our findings of lower BDNF levels in male FM patients compared to females support this hypothesis. BDNF have potential as biomarker of the disease and should be validated in larger cohorts.References:[1]Sarzi-Puttini et al. Nature Reviews 2020[2]Colucci-D’Amato et al. Int J Molecular Sciences 2020[3]Nugraha et al. Rheumatol Int 2012[4]Schmitt et al. Ann Med 2016[5]Melchior et al. Neuroscience 2016[6]Stefani et al. Neuroscience Letters 2012Disclosure of Interests:None declared


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