Authors: Lykissas, Marios G.; Batistatou, Anna K.; Charalabopoulos, Konstantinos A.; Beris, Alexandros E.

Source: Current Neurovascular Research, Volume 4, Number 2, May 2007 , pp. 143-151(9)

Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers

Abstract:

Neurotrophins are proteins that regulate neuronal survival, axonal growth, synaptic plasticity and neurotransmission. They are members of the neurotrophic factors family and include factors such as the nerve growth factor (NGF), the brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), the neurotrophin-3 (NT-3), and the neurotrophin-4/5 (NT-4/5). These molecules bind to two types of receptors: i) tyrosine kinase receptors (TrkA, TrkB, TrkC) and ii) a common neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR). The two receptor types can either suppress or enhance each other's actions. Neurotrophins have a multifunctional role both in the central and peripheral nervous system. They have been suggested as axonal guidance molecules during the growth and regeneration of nerves. It has also been proven that they stimulate axonal growth by mediating the polymerization and accumulation of F-actin in growth cones and axon shafts. Neurotrophins, as other neurotrophic factors, have been shown that they reduce neuronal injury by exposure to excitotoxins, glucose deprivation, or ischemia. Furthermore, the nerve regeneration promoting effect of these growth factors is well documented for many different models of central or peripheral nervous system injury. Several studies have shown that exogenous administration of these factors has protective properties for injured neurons and stimulates axonal regeneration. Based on these properties, these molecules may be used as therapeutic agents for treating degenerative diseases and traumatic injuries of both the central and peripheral nervous system.

Keywords: Neurotrophic factors; nerve growth factor; brain derived neurotrophic factor; neurotrophin-3; neurotrophin-4/5; neurotrophin receptors; neuronal injury; peripheral nervous system

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/156720207780637216

Affiliations: 1: Department of Physiology,Clinical Unit, Medical Faculty, University of Ioannina, 45221 Ioannina, Greece/GR.

Publication date: 2007-05-01

More about this publication?

• Current Neurovascular Research (CNR) provides a cross platform for the publication of scientifically rigorous research that addresses disease mechanisms of both neuronal and vascular origins in neuroscience. The journal serves as an international forum for the publication of novel and pioneering original work as well as timely neuroscience research reviews in the disciplines of cell developmental disorders, plasticity, and degeneration that bridge the gap between basic science research and clinical discovery. CNR emphasizes the elucidation of disease mechanisms, both cellular and molecular, which can impact the development of unique therapeutic strategies for neuronal and vascular disorders.

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