Emily Chiang

How can the BDNF gene be used as a gene of interest in genetic treatment of MDD?

Started June 30, 2022

Abstract or project description

As depression rates increase among Americans, neuroscientists seek for more efficient targets for treating major depressive disorder (MDD)  by focusing on biological mechanisms. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a neurotrophic protein, has been shown to be associated with the development of neuropsychological disorders such as MDD. Thus, BDNF mechanisms are an ideal target in the search for effective treatments for depression, through antidepressants, physical exercise, and gene therapy.