Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor differences between the luteal and follicular phases in premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

Objective: We hypothesized that comparison of the serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels between women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and women without PMDD in the luteal and follicular phases of their menstrual cycles would reflect the altered neuromodulator responses that compensate the underlying pathogenesis in PMDD.

Method: Twenty-nine participants without PMDD and 20 with PMDD were enrolled in the study. The serum BDNF, estrogen and progesterone levels were assessed at the follicular and luteal phases in their two consecutive menstrual cycles.