Last reviewed: May 12, 2026 Last updated: May 12, 2026

Written by: Jay Hastings , CEO of PlexusDx

Jay Hastings is the CEO of PlexusDx, a precision health company focused on genetic testing, blood biomarker insights, and personalized wellness recommendations. He has more than 20 years of experience across healthcare innovation, genomics, laboratory operations, healthcare investing, and strategic finance. His work has included scaling healthcare startups, leading CLIA lab integrations, and helping expand consumer access to precision health tools.

Medically reviewed by: Jayden Lee, PharmD, EMBA

Jayden Lee, PharmD, EMBA, is the PlexusDx Medical Science Liaison with a PharmD and MBA specializing in pharmacogenomics and clinical product development, with a proven ability to bridge the gap between genomic research and practical patient outcomes. Dr. Lee has more than 10 years of professional experience in clinical pharmacy, academia, and research.

Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)

Do you want to discover how your genetic makeup affects your cognitive functions? Explore the fascinating universe of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) to understand how genetic factors influence your cognitive and mental well-being. We will investigate how BDNF functions within cognitive processes and examine the ways genetic variations may affect brain performance.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) functions as a crucial element produced mainly by brain cells which acts as a significant facilitator of brain development and learning capacity. This essential factor promotes both neurogenesis which is the development of new nerve cells and synaptic plasticity which establishes connections between brain cells. BDNF deficiency impacts brain regions which handle learning and memory functions and leads to reduced cognitive performance along with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. The effects of BDNF reach beyond cognitive functions to include mental health, stress responses, heart health, sleep patterns, and weight control. Regular exercise along with quality sleep and stress management techniques combined with sun exposure and a healthy diet represent natural methods to boost BDNF levels.

The BDNF gene plays a crucial role in how the brain produces and manages BDNF activity. The important gene variant rs6265 known as "Val66Met" affects BDNF production and release mechanisms inside brain cells. The Met allele of this gene variant is known to cause reduced cognitive abilities which lead to learning challenges, memory loss and dementia progression. The Val66Met genetic variant appears to play a role in various additional disorders including stress reactions and anxiety disorders along with PTSD and OCD and impacts weight control as well as migraine headaches and fatigue levels. It remains critical to understand this variant's limitations which involve inconsistent effects on specific traits together with the effect of other genetic variants as well as lifestyle and environmental factors on BDNF levels and a gender-specific impact regarding OCD and dementia.

Those curious about their genetic factors that influence cognitive health can find valuable knowledge through PlexusDx's Precision Health & Wellness tests. Learning about your genetic profile enables you to better understand your genetic influence on mental health and cognitive functions. The complex relationship between genetic factors and cognitive health highlights why it is critical to investigate the genetic secrets of BDNF. Taking a comprehensive approach that includes genetic predispositions and lifestyle elements enables people to improve their cognitive functions while boosting their mental wellness. Begin your journey to better health knowledge and empowerment by discovering the Precision Health & Wellness tests PlexusDx offers. Embark on your genetic journey now to discover key insights about your brain health. PlexusDx offers Precision Health & Wellness tests which customers can purchase from PlexusDx.com, Amazon and Walmart.

Medical and Editorial Standards

Medical review process: This article was reviewed for medical accuracy, scientific clarity, evidence alignment, and appropriate discussion of genetics, medications, supplements, biomarkers, and health-related claims.

Sources and evidence: PlexusDx educational content is developed using peer-reviewed research, clinical literature, reputable medical references, and, where applicable, public health or regulatory guidance. References are included at the end of the article when scientific, medical, or health-related claims are discussed.

Commercial transparency: PlexusDx offers genetic testing, blood biomarker testing, personalized supplement recommendations, and related precision wellness services. Product mentions are intended to help readers understand available options and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Important disclaimer: PlexusDx educational content is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about medications, supplements, genetic testing, lab testing, or health-related care.