Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor as a Biomarker in Children with Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder

Background: Evidence suggests that Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is involved in the pathogenesis of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), although experimental data regarding the contribution of BDNF concentration to this psychiatric disorder are controversial. Aim: To evaluate the plasma levels of BDNF in patients with ADHD. Material and Methods: In this cross sectional study, ADHD and controls were recruited from the outpatient clinic of the Shafa Hospital, Rasht; between March 2012 and April 2013. Clinical data concerning ADHD diagnosis and blood samples for patients were collected before treatment. Medical, neurological and psychiatric co-morbidities were excluded. The mean of BDNF concentration measured and compared with healthy controls. BDNF assay was determined using ELISA kits according to manufacturer's instructions. Descriptive statistical analysis was used with analysis of variance to find the significance of data. Results: Statistical analyses showed that the mean BDNF levels were significantly lower in ADHD patients and its subgroups as compared with normal control subjects (p<0.001). Conclusion: This study showed a dramatically lower BDNF plasma levels in untreated patients with ADHD, which might be useful adjunct method for diagnosis of ADHD in society.