Neurotrophic factor level changes in Behçet's disease

This study aimed to compare the serum levels of neurotrophic factors (BDNF, NGF, NT-3, NT-4, GDNF) in individuals with Behçet's disease with those of healthy controls, as well as across the active and inactive phases of the disease. The study included 30 patients with Behçet's disease and 30 healthy controls. Serum levels of BDNF, NGF, NT-3, NT-4, and GDNF were measured using the ELISA method; disease activity was assessed with the BDCAF, and pain was evaluated using the SLANSS score. The results showed that all neurotrophic factor levels were significantly lower in Behçet's patients compared to healthy controls (p<0.05). However, no significant differences were found between the active and inactive disease phases regarding neurotrophic factor levels. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant correlation between neurotrophic factor levels and disease activity (BDCAF) or pain (SLANSS) scores. In conclusion, although serum levels of neurotrophic factors were decreased in Behçet's disease, no direct association with disease activity was observed. These findings suggest that neurotrophic factors may be involved in the pathophysiology of Behçet's disease, but they do not appear to be reliable biomarkers for disease activity. Keywords: Behçet's disease, neurotrophic factors, BDNF, NGF, NT-3, NT-4, GDNF