The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene is mapped to human chromosome 11p14.1. The gene encodes a precursor protein, proBDNF. Mature BDNF (mBDNF) is synthesized by post-translational cleavage of proBDNF.
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is involved in hippocampal function and verbal episodic memory in humans. BDNF also plays a vital role in vascular function and participates in angiogenesis via the specific receptor tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB). It is involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer′s disease.
