However, the meta-analysis highlighted considerable unexplained between-study heterogeneity in outcomes, underpowered study designs and publication bias.6 Furthermore, it was suggested that low peripheral BDNF levels were a state biomarker of disease activity reflecting the pathophysiology common to mood disorder and schizophrenia.7 BDNF might become a valuable treatment biomarker if early changes in BDNF can be detected during the course of preventing event-related psychological distress. This evidence concerns the gene BDNF and schizophrenia.