Exploring the association between lower serum BDNF levels and delayed-onset PTSD in physically injured patients with vulnerable personality traits: A two-year prospective study
1Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea.
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Summary
Low serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (sBDNF) levels predict delayed posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in individuals with vulnerable personalities following physical injury. This highlights the interplay between neurobiology and psychology in PTSD development.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Trauma Research
Background:
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant mental health concern following physical injury.
- Understanding the factors contributing to PTSD development, particularly its onset patterns, is crucial for effective intervention.
- Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (sBDNF) and personality traits are potential moderators in PTSD etiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the longitudinal relationships between serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (sBDNF) levels, personality types, and the development of earlier- and delayed-onset posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- To explore the interaction between sBDNF and personality in predicting PTSD onset following physical injury.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal study of 895 adults with moderate to severe physical injuries.
- Baseline assessments included serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (sBDNF) levels and personality classification (resilient vs. vulnerable) using the Big Five Inventory-10.
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnoses were made using the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months post-injury.
Main Results:
- 10.9% of participants developed PTSD, with 8.4% showing earlier-onset and 3.5% delayed-onset.
- Lower sBDNF levels significantly predicted delayed-onset PTSD specifically in individuals with a vulnerable personality type (N=15).
- This association was not observed in resilient individuals or those with earlier-onset PTSD.
Conclusions:
- The findings underscore a significant interaction between neurobiological factors (sBDNF) and psychological predispositions (vulnerable personality) in the development of delayed-onset PTSD.
- This interplay may offer deeper insights into the complex etiology of PTSD.
- Targeted interventions may benefit from considering both neurotrophic factor levels and personality profiles in at-risk populations.