How BDNF affects brain inflammation and mood
Official title: Role of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Regulating Neuroinflammation in Mental Health
Funded at South Texas Veterans Health Care System · NIH-11131033 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project looks at whether changes in the brain protein BDNF drive inflammation in the brain that may worsen depression, especially in veterans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | South Texas Veterans Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2016 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX003195-08 |
| Project ID | NIH-11131033 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults (age 21+) with a history of chronic stress or depression, particularly US veterans with inflammation-related health issues, would be the most relevant candidates.
✕Less likely to help
People without depressive symptoms or without signs of brain or systemic inflammation—including children under 21—are unlikely to benefit directly from this research.
What this research studies
If you have experienced long-term stress or depression, this work examines how a brain protein called BDNF might change immune activity in the brain and contribute to depressive symptoms. Researchers use laboratory models and molecular studies to look at how BDNF influences two arms of the kynurenine pathway in brain cells called astrocytes and microglia. The team is identifying neural pathways that can be targeted to lower harmful inflammation while preserving protective processes. Results are intended to point toward new treatment strategies for people with inflammation-linked depression, including many US veterans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work may identify new targets to reduce brain inflammation and improve treatments for inflammation-linked depression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have linked BDNF and the kynurenine pathway to depression, so elements are supported by prior work, but the specific focus on BDNF-driven neuroinflammation in veterans is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
South Texas Veterans Health Care System
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'connor, Jason C — South Texas Veterans Health Care System
- Study coordinator: O'connor, Jason C
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
An integrated mobile health program to reduce SAVA and mental health problems among female sex workers in Kenya
A new mobile health program aims to help female sex workers in Kenya avoid substance abuse, violence, HIV, and depression by delivering group therapy, online resources, and a peer discussion space.
-
Adolescent girls in Uganda: a long-term look at how money empowerment and family support affect HIV prevention, care, and mental health
A long-term study in rural Uganda will test whether an intervention that combines economic empowerment and family strengthening can help HIV-negative and HIV-affected adolescent girls move safely into young adulthood.
-
Long-term HIV prevention and mental health support for adolescent girls and young women in Uganda
A long-term program in rural Uganda tests if combining economic support and family strengthening helps teenage girls stay HIV-free and improve mental health as they grow into young adults.
-
Johns Hopkins Total Worker Health Center focusing on mental health
A nationwide center at Johns Hopkins is working to improve mental health and well-being among workers by studying workplace health strategies and translating findings into practical tools.
-
Maternal mental health help to protect kids’ breathing health
A mother-focused mental health program is tested to see if improving moms’ mood can also support better breathing and fewer asthma symptoms in children.
-
SNEngage: How Social Networks and Supports Shape Mental Health Care for Black and Latino Individuals with Serious Mental Illness
A long-term study following Black and Latino individuals with serious mental illness to learn how their social networks affect engagement with mental health services and overall well-being.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.