BDNF

Function

The protein expressed by the BDNF gene is a critical signaling molecule that activates pathways downstream of NTRK2, as well as the heterodimeric receptor formed by NGFR and SORCS2. During development, it aids the survival and differentiation of specific neuronal populations in both the peripheral and central nervous systems. It is involved in axonal growth, pathfinding, and modulation of dendritic growth and morphology. In adult synapses, BDNF is a key regulator of synaptic transmission and plasticity in various CNS regions, contributing to processes like long-term potentiation, long-term depression, some short-term synaptic plasticity forms, and the homeostatic regulation of intrinsic neuronal excitability. Signaling through NGFR and SORCS2 is linked to synaptic plasticity and long-term depression, while its binding to these receptors also promotes neuronal apoptosis. This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Post-translational modifications

Neurotrophic factor BDNF precursor form

N-glycosylated and glycosulfated, contrary to mature BDNF.

Mature BDNF is produced by proteolytic removal of the propeptide, catalyzed by a FURIN family member. In addition, the precursor form is proteolytically cleaved within the propeptide, but this is not an obligatory intermediate for the production of mature BDNF (PubMed:11152678). Can be converted into mature BDNF by plasmin (PLG) (PubMed:19467646).

Sequence Similarities

Belongs to the NGF-beta family.

Tissue Specificity

Detected in blood plasma and in saliva (at protein level) (PubMed:11152678, PubMed:19467646). Brain. Highly expressed in hippocampus, amygdala, cerebral cortex and cerebellum. Also expressed in heart, lung, skeletal muscle, testis, prostate and placenta.

Cellular localization

• Secreted
• Neurotrophic factor BDNF precursor form
• Secreted
• A proportion of BDNF is secreted as immature precursor (proBDNF).

Alternative names

Neurotrophic factor BDNF precursor form, proBDNF, Abrineurin, Brain-derived neurotrophic factor, BDNF

Database links

swissprot:P23560 omim:113505 entrezGene:627

Other research areas

• Cardiovascular