Posted by linkadge on December 8, 2006, at 17:48:38
In reply to Re: ECT experience » blueberry, posted by Amadeus on December 8, 2006, at 15:29:52
>I have read some studies on ECT and what I have >understood is that the ECT has to >be "intrusive". It triggers release of growth >factors (BDNF) and vascular regeneration >improving blood circulation in the brain.
This may not be a good thing. I mean ECT does increase BDNF, but so does other traumatic brain injury. BDNF is not just a growth factor, but also a neuroprotective chemical. BDNF is greatly increased after certain neurological insult including epileptic seizures. It may just be a sign that the brain is trying to protect itself from what the hell is happening.
ECT also increases certain markers of cell injury such as GFAP, which is high after radiation and high in alzheimers.
I would not necesarily conclude ECT induced BDNF is a good thing.
Linkadge
poster:linkadge
thread:711494
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20061206/msgs/711638.html