Detail of a molecular model of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor, also known as BDNF. It is a protein that, in humans, is encoded by the BDNF gene. Neurotrophic factors are found in the brain and the periphery. BDNF acts on certain neurons of the central nervous system, helping to support the survival of existing neurons, and encourage the growth and differentiation of new neurons and synapses.It is active in brain areas vital to learning, memory, and higher thinking. It's also important for long-term memory. Studies indicate possible links between BDNF and conditions, as depression, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, Rett syndrome and dementia. The background shows a network of neurons or nerve cells of the brain.