Exposure to Stress and Separation-induced BDNF impairments in adolescents.

Our data confirmed that separation triggers alterations in BDNF, even after the growth spurt of the brain during early childhood. The important implication of this study is the persistent abnormal levels of BDNF. The prolonged alteration is of concern when considering that BDNF plays a critical role in the pruning process occurring during adolescence. Additional studies are needed to assess whether these alterations can lead to neuropsychological disruptions.