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The Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Val66Met Polymorphism Can Protect Against Cognitive Impairment in Multiple Sclerosis

Authors :
Emilio Portaccio
Angelo Bellinvia
Elio Prestipino
Benedetta Nacmias
Silvia Bagnoli
Lorenzo Razzolini
Luisa Pastò
Claudia Niccolai
Benedetta Goretti
Mattia Fonderico
Giovanni Bosco Zimatore
Nunzia Alessandra Losignore
Sandro Sorbi
Maria Pia Amato
Source :
Frontiers in Neurology, Frontiers in Neurology, Vol 12 (2021)
Publication Year :
2021
Publisher :
Frontiers Media SA, 2021.

Abstract

Introduction: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a member of the neurotrophin family, involved in neuronal survival and synaptic plasticity. The BDNF Val66Met polymorphism is known to reduce BDNF expression and secretion; its role in multiple sclerosis (MS) is poorly investigated.Objectives and Methods: In this multicenter, retrospective study, we assessed the role of BDNF Val66Met polymorphism on cognitive and motor disability in MS patients consecutively referred to the University of Florence and the Hospital of Barletta. All patients underwent a genetic analysis for the presence of Val66Met polymorphism and a comprehensive neuropsychological examination on the Rao's Brief Repeatable Battery and the Stroop Color Word Test. Possible predictors of the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score and number of failed neuropsychological tests were assessed through linear multivariable regression models.Results: Ninety-eight patients were recruited. Patients with the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism (35.7%) were more frequently males (p = 0.020), more disabled (p = 0.026) and, marginally, older (p = 0.064). In the multivariable analysis, BDNF Val66Met polymorphism was associated with a better cognitive performance (B = −1.1 ± 0.5, p = 0.027). Higher EDSS score was associated with a progressive disease course (B = 3.4, p < 0.001) and, marginally, with the presence of the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism (B = 0.56, p = 0.066).Discussion: Our results preliminarily suggest a protective role of BDNF Val66Met polymorphism against cognitive impairment in MS patients, possibly related to a detrimental effect of increased BDNF concentration in a neuroinflammatory environment.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
16642295
Volume :
12
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
Frontiers in Neurology
Accession number :
edsair.doi.dedup.....b3aa262304ed3730d01c66e0029c16cc
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2021.645220