Work

Association of anhedonia with brain-derived neurotrophic factor and oxidative stress in bipolar disorder

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Individuals with bipolar disorder (BD) undergo depressed episodes, frequently characterized by anhedonia. Neurotrophic factors and oxidative stress are linked to anhedonia. The precise association between these biomarkers and anhedonia in individuals with BD remains unclear. This study primarily examined the potential relationships among brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and anhedonia in individuals with BD. METHODS: This study had 85 people diagnosed with bipolar disorder, of whom 61 exhibited depression symptoms. Additionally, there were 88 healthy control volunteers. The study thoroughly evaluated anticipatory and consummatory pleasure, childhood adversity, oxidative stress indicators, and BDNF levels in depressed BD patients and healthy controls. Partial correlation analysis and stepwise multiple linear regression analysis were employed to explore the relationships among oxidative stress indicators, BDNF and anhedonia. RESULTS: In comparison to the healthy control group, the depressed BD group demonstrated markedly diminished anticipatory and consummatory pleasure, elevated anxiety and depression ratings, and increased childhood adversity. There was a significant difference in CAT levels between the two groups. In depressed BD patients, BDNF and CAT were moderately and negatively correlated with consummatory pleasure. The regression analysis indicated BDNF as a significant predictor of consummatory pleasure. CONCLUSION: These data suggested that the anhedonia is affected by BDNF and oxidative stresses, so offering a critical insight for addressing anhedonia in BD. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: Not applicable.

Source: BMC Psychiatry

DOI: 10.1186/s12888-026-08342-0