Abstract
Growth factors (GFs) are cytokines that regulate the neural development. Recent evidence indicates that alterations in the expression level of GFs during embryogenesis are linked to the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). In this concise review, we summarize the current evidence that supports the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, insulin-like growth factor 2, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), glial-derived neurotrophic factor, nerve growth factor, neurotrophins 3 and 4, and epidermal growth factor in the pathogenesis of ADHD and ASD. We also highlight the potential use of these GFs as clinical markers for diagnosis and prognosis of these neurodevelopmental disorders.
Highlights
During neural development, a myriad of biological events occurs simultaneously, i.e., neurogenesis, gliogenesis, cellular migration, cell differentiation, synapse formation, etc
A myriad of biological events occurs simultaneously, i.e., neurogenesis, gliogenesis, cellular migration, cell differentiation, synapse formation, etc. These neurobiological processes are orchestrated by several growth factors (GFs) and help shape the postnatal brain [1]
GFs have been extensively studied and most of them share similar cell functions to those reported in the neurodevelopment [2,3,4]
Summary
A myriad of biological events occurs simultaneously, i.e., neurogenesis, gliogenesis, cellular migration, cell differentiation, synapse formation, etc. Some of the most common neurodevelopment disorders are autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) These disorders generate a poor global performance throughout life. The expression level of some growth-factor correlates with the clinical manifestations of ADHD and ASD [11]. This evidence suggests the role of GFs in. ADHD is characterized by inappropriate levels of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity [15] These patients have evident social and academic problems that affect their global performance [38, 39]. ADHD is highly comorbid with other psychiatric or neurodevelopment disorders, such as oppositional defiant disorder, major depressive disorder, and anxiety disorders [37, 40]
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