Aim of the study was studying of connection between serum BDNF – brain derived neurotrophic factor level – in severely depressed patients, and severity of symptoms in depression.

Material and methods: In studies took part 45 women hospitalized with the diagnosis of depressive episode in course of unipolar or bipolar disorder. Severity of depression was assessed with Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D). Serum BDNF was assayed with sandwich ELISA method using Quantikine Human BDNF Immunoassay (R&D Systems).

Results: We found statistically significant negative correlation between serum BDNF levels in severe depression and severity of depression (measured with HAM-D). Statistical significance concerns the general assessment, symptoms of cluster II (depression related anxiety and insomnia) and such symptoms as anxiety psychic, insight.

Conclusions: Our results suggest correlation between BDNF serum level and severity of psychopathological signs in depression.