Peran brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) dalam patogenesis depresi dan potensi target terapi: Sebuah telaah literatur
DOI: https://doi.org/10.33024/hjk.v20i6.3678
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) Depression Pathogenesis Therapy
Abstract
Background: Depression is a mental disorder associated with a substantial global burden in terms of both morbidity and mortality, with its prevalence continuing to rise over recent decades. The limited efficacy of conventional antidepressant therapies suggests that neurotransmitter-based approaches have not fully elucidated the pathogenesis of depression. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) serves as a critical mediator in the regulation of neuroplasticity and neural circuit integrity.
Purpose: To examine the role of BDNF in the pathogenesis of depression and its potential as a therapeutic target.
Method: This literature review was conducted through a systematic search of the PubMed and Google Scholar databases between March and May 2026, restricted to publications within the past ten years. Search terms encompassed the role of BDNF in the pathogenesis of depression and its relationship to antidepressant treatment response. Articles meeting the inclusion criteria were analyzed using a narrative approach.
Results: Depression is a multifactorial disorder involving complex interactions among neurotransmitter dysfunction, hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis activation, neuroinflammatory processes, and impaired neuroplasticity. BDNF serves as a convergence point for these diverse mechanisms through its regulation of neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and neuronal survival, primarily via TrkB signaling pathways. Reduced BDNF expression contributes to neuronal atrophy and brain circuit dysfunction in depression, whereas elevated BDNF levels are associated with favorable antidepressant treatment responses. Both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions have been demonstrated to upregulate BDNF expression, reflecting the restoration of neuroplastic function. Furthermore, BDNF holds promise as a biomarker and therapeutic target, although its clinical utility remains constrained by biological variability and methodological challenges.
Conclusion: BDNF represents a key mediator in the pathogenesis of depression and a promising target for mechanism-based therapeutic strategies. Approaches centered on modulating neuroplasticity through the BDNF system may enhance the effectiveness of depression management in the future, though further research is warranted to support clinical implementation.
Keywords: Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF); Depression; Pathogenesis; Therapy.
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