Blood Levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (Bdnf) in Psoriasis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Publisher Pubmed



Sarasyabi MS ; Seighali N ; Abdolmaleki M ; Shobeiri P ; Movahed MR ; Bozorgnia F ; Maleki S
Source: Advances in Rheumatology Published:2026

Abstract

Introduction: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting 0.1–1.5% of the global population. The condition is linked to impaired quality of life and increased morbidity. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin associated with neuronal development and synaptic plasticity; its dysregulation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. This study systematically reviews and analyzes the relationship between BDNF levels and psoriasis. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted by the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Comprehensive searches were performed on MEDLINE, Scopus, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases up to January 19th, 2024. Eligible studies measured circulating BDNF levels in psoriasis patients and compared them with healthy controls. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to assess the quality of included studies. Meta-analyses were performed using standardized mean differences (SMD) with either fixed or random-effects models based on heterogeneity measures. Results: Six studies met the inclusion criteria, with data from 2006 to 2020. Meta-analysis revealed a significant reduction in BDNF levels in psoriasis patients compared to healthy controls (SMD −0.577, 95% CI [−0.915, −0.239], p = 0.0008). Heterogeneity was substantial (I2 = 70.2%). Sensitivity analysis identified one study as a major contributor to heterogeneity. No significant factors contributing to heterogeneity were identified through meta-regression. Conclusion: This study found a significant reduction in BDNF levels in psoriasis patients, suggesting a potential link between BDNF dysregulation and the pathophysiology of psoriasis. Understanding the role of BDNF in these conditions may inform future research and therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from both. Further research is needed to explore the relationship and the mechanisms underlying the associations of psoriasis and any probable related comorbidities, such as depression. © The Author(s) 2026.