Evidence of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in ameliorating cancer-related cognitive impairment: A systematic review of human studies

Crit Rev Oncol Hematol. 2022 Aug:176:103748. doi: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103748. Epub 2022 Jun 17.

Abstract

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays an essential role in neurogenesis and neuroplasticity and may be a key protein in cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI). This systematic review assessed the relationship between BDNF biomarkers and neurocognitive outcomes in cancer patients and survivors. A search in PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO yielded 638 articles, of which 26 were eligible. Fourteen (54 %) studied BDNF protein levels while 15 (58 %) analyzed BDNF rs6265 polymorphism. Of the nine observational studies reporting BDNF plasma/serum levels, five (56 %) exhibited a positive association between BDNF and cognitive function. One study reported intra-tumoral BDNF levels that were negatively associated with memory. For rs6265, three (20 %) of 15 studies reported an association with cognitive function with inconsistent directions. Among seven neuroimaging studies, three (43 %) demonstrated an effect of BDNF on brain function and structure. These results suggest that BDNF is a potential monitoring biomarker and druggable target for CRCI.

Keywords: BDNF; Biomarker; Chemotherapy; Cognition; Memory.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers
  • Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor / genetics
  • Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor / pharmacology
  • Cognition
  • Cognitive Dysfunction* / etiology
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms* / complications
  • Polymorphism, Genetic

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor