Brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels under chronic natalizumab treatment in multiple sclerosis. A preliminary report

Abstract

Aim of the study

Our main purpose was to investigate if the chronic treatment with the disease-modifying drug natalizumab shows quantifiable effect on BDNF levels in multiple sclerosis patients.

Materials and Methods

BDNF plasma concentration was evaluated using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in healthy individuals, not treated multiple sclerosis patients and patients treated with natalizumab.

Results

Multiple sclerosis patients have a significantly lower amount of peripheral BDNF than healthy individuals. Patients treated with natalizumab have significantly higher BDNF levels than not treated patients.

Conclusions

Chronic natalizumab treatment is associated with significantly increased plasma BDNF concentration in multiple sclerosis.