Neuroprotective factors in schizophrenia: BDNF, NGF, NT3, GDNF and their connection to the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. A narrative review

Introduction: There are several hypotheses of schizophrenia pathogenesis, including the neurodegenerative theory, which is supported by evidence for decrease neuroprotective factors’ serum levels. The proteins, that exert a protective effect on neurons and researched concerning include brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nerve growth (NGF), neurotrophin 3 (NT3), glial cell line-derived (GDNF). This review aims to discuss role factors in development their relevance clinical trials. Material methods: was performed search PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct databases from December 25th, 2022, through January 31st, 2023, using keywords: ‘schizophrenia’, ‘schizophrenia pathogenesis’, ‘neuroprotection’, ‘neurodegeneration’, ‘BDNF’, ‘NGF’, ‘NT3’, ‘GDNF’. We considered original research papers systematic reviews published English or Polish. Additionally, trials, included assessment levels as outcome measures, were searched clinicaltrials.gov. Results: Lower BDNF have been linked cognitive impairment schizophrenia. In used measure novel therapies. Schizophrenia has also associated with reduced peripheral NGF During remission, lower correlate higher severity negative symptoms. Decreased NT3 GDNF can be seen, but literature reports inconsistent. Conclusions: Neuroprotective most likely related pathogenesis Assessing level these proteins may prove an invaluable element management. Keywords: schizophrenia, factor, factor,neurotrophin 3,