Research Gaps in the Relationship Between Serum Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and Trunk Control After Stroke: A Scoping Review of the Last Decade (2014–2024)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31436/imjm.v25i04.2850Keywords:
cerebrovascular accident, neurorehabilitation, neurotrophins, synapptic plasticity, stroke survivorsAbstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a crucial role in neuroprotection and neuroplasticity, positioning it as a key target for enhancing rehabilitation outcomes in stroke survivors. This scoping review aimed to explore the relevance of serum BDNF levels in improving trunk control and balance performance among this population. Using the PICO framework, the review focused on stroke patients (Population), undergoing rehabilitation (Intervention), compared to healthy individuals (Comparison), with outcomes including trunk control, balance, and serum BDNF levels (Outcome). A systematic search was conducted across five major databases: MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase, CINAHL Plus, and Cochrane Central, targeting full-text English studies published between 2014 and 2024. Studies meeting the inclusion criteria were analysed to identify patterns and research gaps. Five studies met the inclusion criteria. The findings suggest that serum BDNF levels increase following rehabilitation interventions and correlate with the duration of mobilisation. However, none of the included studies directly assessed trunk control, highlighting significant research gaps in understanding the direct impact of BDNF on trunk recovery after stroke. Further research is needed to elucidate how BDNF may facilitate trunk recovery, enhance early ambulation, and improve functional outcomes in individuals with stroke. This review highlights the absence of direct evidence linking serum BDNF to trunk-specific recovery and emphasises the need for targeted research in this area. Most research focuses on gait and balance, which serve as surrogate measures for trunk control, and emphasises spasticity in the extremities. Addressing these gaps through targeted research could optimize rehabilitation strategies and improve outcomes for stroke survivors
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