BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) is a small secreted growth factor and a member of the neurotrophic factor family. It is induced by cortical neurons and is necessary for the survival of striatal neurons in the brain. BDNF is the main regulatory factor for adult synaptic transmission and plasticity. In addition, the precursor proBDNF and mature protein mBDNF have opposite effects on long-term enhancement and long-term inhibition. BDNF is also associated with weight regulation and activity: heterozygous BDNF knockout mice exhibit high appetite, obesity, and hyperactivity.
