“The neurotrophic protein brain-derived neurotrophic factor [BDNF] plays a pivotal role in brain function and is affected by acute and chronic stress.”

“We here investigate the patterns of BDNF and cortisol stress reactivity and recovery under the standardized stress protocol of the TSST and the effect of perceived chronic stress on the basal BDNF levels in healthy young men.”

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“29 lean young men underwent the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) and a resting condition.”

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“After the TSST, there was a significant increase over time for brain-derived neurotrophic factor [BDNF] and cortisol.”

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“Stronger increase in cortisol in response to stress was linked to an accelerated brain-derived neurotrophic factor [BDNF] decline after stress.”

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“Chronically elevated high cortisol levels, as present in chronic stress, could thereby contribute to reduced neurogenesis, and an increased risk of neurodegenerative conditions in persons suffering from chronic stress.”

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B.Herhaus, et al

Dynamic interplay of cortisol and BDNF in males under acute and chronic psychosocial stress – A randomized controlled study

Psychneuroendocrinology — Volume 170 — December 2024