Skip to main content

BDNF Signalling

Process Cns

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor acting at TrkB. The growth signal behind new synapses and behind the kind of memory that needs sleep to form. It is suppressed by sustained cortisol and by lost deep sleep, which is how a compound with no direct action in the brain still reaches memory.

Relationships

3 connections

BDNF Signalling agonist of

TrkB (BDNF Receptor)

What BDNF binds. It is the main receptor behind the claim that a nootropic peptide improves learning or protects neurons: almost all of them are described as raising BDNF, which means acting here.

BDNF Signalling stimulates

Astrocyte

The support cell that feeds neurons and clears glutamate from the synapse. It also expresses aromatase, which means part of the brain's own estrogen supply comes from glia.

Synaptic Plasticity

The brain's ability to strengthen and rebuild connections. It is what learning physically is, and it is the endpoint almost every nootropic peptide claims.

Beyond this page

BDNF Signalling also connects to 2 entries in the applied modules, covering supplements, compounds, hormones and food sources. Those carry the mechanism and the evidence tier behind each link, and they are part of client coaching.

Get your free assessment