Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) seems to serve as an important regulatory mechanism in the growth and development of neurons in many areas of the brain.Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) is related to neurogenesis and regulation of the BDNF gene and is involved in the growth and differentiation of neurons.Cortisol is released in response to stimuli such as psychological oppression, anxiety, and fear.Stress also induces changes in BDNF.
The aim of this paper is to review the available knowledge on the BDNFVal66Met SNP, with emphasis on anxiety- and fear-related endophenotypes and its potential implications for PTSD.