Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its role in neurobiological processes

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a secretory protein that regulates the processes of neurogenesis, differentiation and survival of neurons and synaptic plasticity. The changes in the secretion and/or expression of BDNF are associated with pathological disturbance in the functioning of nervous tissue. In this regard, the study of BDNF isoforms functions at the molecular-cellular level opens up new prospects for the therapy of neuropsychiatric disorders, neurodegenerative diseases and other pathologies.This article seeks to describe the structure of the BDNF gene, the features of synthesis and transport of its isoforms. The receptors and molecular-cellular mechanisms for BDNF functions are described. Particular attention is paid to the involvement of BDNF in the processes of neuron generation and the formation of new synapses in brain neurogenic zones. The influence of factors (neuron activity level, neurotransmitter concentration, etc.) on BDNF-dependent regulation of synaptic plasticity is considered.