# Neurotrophins Plasma Levels Kinetics in Ischemic Stroke Patients—Potential Relation to Outcomes

## TL;DR

This study examines how blood levels of neurotrophins in ischemic stroke patients relate to their outcomes, finding that lower BDNF levels are linked to worse results.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the relationship between specific neurotrophin levels and stroke outcomes, focusing on BDNF and its clinical relevance.

## Key findings

- Lower BDNF levels at two time points correlate with severe stroke and higher NIHSS scores.
- Patients who died had lower baseline BDNF and NT-4, and higher NT-3 levels.
- NT-3 and NT-4 levels change in response to ischemic stroke.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Neurotrophins are a family of structurally related growth factors known to play an important role in the physiology and pathophysiology of the central nervous system. In ischemic stroke, lower blood concentrations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) have been linked to worse outcomes. However, data regarding blood levels of other neurotrophins remain limited. Methods: Plasma levels of BDNF, NGF, NT-3 and NT-4 of 93 patients with ischemic stroke were measured using Luminex immunoassay at two time points: within 24 h from onset and on the seventh day. Clinical data regarding co-existing risk factors, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score and mortality were collected and analyzed in relation to analytes. Results: BDNF levels at both time points were lower in patients with severe stroke and correlated negatively with NIHSS scores. No such associations were observed for NGF and NT-3. Patients who died had lower baseline BDNF, NT-4 and higher NT-3. Conclusions: A lower BDNF level, but no other neurotrophins, is associated with worse outcomes in ischemic stroke patients. NT-3 and NT-4 levels change in response to ischemic stroke.