Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in Children with PDDs and their Parents

Background: Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a protein widely expressed in the developing brain which is known to regulate neuronal cell survival, differentiation, and plasticity. BDNF has been implicated in the study of Autism among other various disorders, such as Depression and Schizophrenia. Albeit some contradictory findings in various age groups, a BDNF excess theory has been put forward.

Objectives: In the present study we intend to compare BDNF concentration in the serum both of children with PDDs aged 30-42 months and their parents with that in normal controls.

Methods: The diagnosis of the children is based on ADI-R and ADOS-G. Subjects were selected if they were of normal intelligence by the use of Leiter-R and they had no history or signs of any birth complications, seizures or a known cause of Autism such as Fragile-X or Tuberous Sclerosis. Since BDNF concentrations are altered in the presence of atopy, total IgE is also measured and skin prick tests are carried out for 10 common allergens. Parents are assessed for depression symptoms using the Beck Depression Inventory and for feautures of the Broader Autism Phenotype using the Broader Phenotype Autism Symptom Scale (BPASS). The presence of any chronic disorder, apart from Depression, or the current use of medications represents an exclusion criterion. Controls are matched for age and sex children in preparation for an orthopedic surgery and age and sex matched adult blood taken from a blood bank, with a total IgE less than 120 kU/m.

Results: The findings of the first 25 families will be presented.

Conclusions:   To be discussed at IMFAR 2008 conference.