Brain-derived neurotrophic factor in substance use disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis

F Ornell, F Hansen, FB Schuch, FP Rebelatto…�- Drug and Alcohol�…, 2018 - Elsevier
Background Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is associated with several
neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. It is not clear, however, whether BDNF levels
are modified in substance use disorders (SUDs). Methods We conducted a systematic
search of electronic databases to identify studies comparing peripheral plasma or serum
BDNF levels in adults with SUDs vs. non-user controls. Forty studies were included in the
meta-analysis involving a total of 2238 participants with SUDs and 2574 controls. Results�…