The impact of age, weight and gender on BDNF levels in human platelets and plasma.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a key mediator of neuronal plasticity in the adult. BDNF is known to be stored in human platelets and to circulate in plasma, but the regulation and function of BDNF in peripheral blood is still poorly understood. In this prospective study, we have examined 140 healthy, non-allergic adults (20-60 years old) to elucidate the impact of age and physical parameters on BDNF levels in human platelets and plasma.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor in platelets and airflow limitation in asthma.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a key mediator of neuronal plasticity, contributes to airway obstruction and hyperresponsiveness in a model of allergic asthma. BDNF is stored in human platelets and circulates in human plasma, but the significance of BDNF in this compartment is poorly understood. We investigated the relationship between platelet and plasma BDNF levels and pulmonary function in a cohort of 26 adult patients with recently diagnosed allergic asthma.