The BDNF gene provides instructions for making a protein found in the brain and spinal cord called brain-derived neurotrophic factor. This protein promotes the survival of nerve cells (neurons) by playing a role in the growth, maturation (differentiation), and maintenance of these cells. In the brain, the BDNF protein is active at the connections between nerve cells (synapses), where cell-to-cell communication occurs. The synapses can change and adapt over time in response to experience, a characteristic called synaptic plasticity. The BDNF protein helps regulate synaptic plasticity, which is important for learning and memory.
The BDNF protein is found in regions of the brain that control eating, drinking, and body weight; the protein likely contributes to the management of these functions.
Other Names
abrineurin; ANON2; BDNF_HUMAN; brain-derived neurotrophic factor; BULN2; neurotrophin
Related Genetics Topics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 627
- OMIM: 113505
- OMIM: 607499
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
