Recombinant human BDNF protein

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a member of the NGF family of neurotrophic growth factors, and shares high sequence homology with NGF, NT-3 and NT-4/5.1,2 BDNF is found in neurons of the central nervous system. It is expressed predominantly in hippocampus, cortex, and amygdaloid complex.3 The synthesis of BDNF is subject to regulation by neuronal activity and specific transmitter systems.4 BDNF binds to p75NTR, the neurotrophin receptor, and may initiate programmed cell death by acting through this receptor.5 Signal transduction is activated by the dimerization and autophosphorylation of the TrkB receptor.6 BDNF supports the survival of primary sensory neurons,7 retinal ganglion cells, basal forebrain cholinergic neurons,8 and mesencephalic dopaminergic neurons in vitro.9 BDNF prevents death of cultured rat spinal motor neurons,10 and rescues substantial numbers of motor neurons after lesioning of the neonatal sciatic or facial nerve.11 Expression is switched on in Schwann cells following peripheral nerve lesion.11 BDNF also inhibits the normal cell death of embryonic chick motor neurons.12 BDNF acts in concert with other factors and neurotrophins. The biological activities of BDNF and NT-3 (neurotrophin-3) are additive, and BDNF also interacts with LIF.13 The effects of BDNF on motor neurons raise the possibility that it may be useful in treating patients with motor neuropathies and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).14