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March 26, 2008
The “Word” on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Growth Factor: Does size really matter?
People with first episode depression have been found to exhibit anatomical changes in the brain with neuroimaging studies before receiving treatment. Smaller volumes in particular regions, most notably the hippocampus (involved in learning and memory) have been shown to increase in size after treatment with various antidepressants. It’s believed that in addition to increasing levels of chemicals such as serotonin, medication when taken on a chronic basis, also increases the level of nerve growth factors. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (a chemical that is neuroprotective; and a growth factor inducing neurogenesis) is increased not only with antidepressants, but with certain mood stabilizers as well.
Patients with depression who have been studied pre and post-treatment have been found to increase the volume of their hippocampal region (specifically gray matter volume). Studies seeking to correlate this new growth with remitted depression are underway, but have not yet been definitive.
Citation:
Tamminga, Carol, M.D. ed. Elucidating the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the brain. American Journal of Psychiatry 164:12, December 2007
Robin Stone, M.D.
Insight Psychiatry
13123 Rosedale Hill Ave.
Huntersville, NC 28078
704-948-3810
