BDNF Val66Met polymorphism and goal-directed behavior in healthy elderly - evidence from auditory distraction

► Variations in BDNF Val66Met polymorphism modulate goal-directed behavior. ► The Val/Val genotype confers a disadvantage in elderly. ► This disadvantage can partly be compensated by attentional shifting mechanisms. ► BDNF modulates distinct subprocesses within a distraction and re-focusing cycle.