Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (mat-BDNF) promotes neuronal survival, whereas its precursor protein (pro-BDNF) induces cell death, which indicates the opposite but potentially important roles of both forms of this neurotrophin in brain development. We studied the contents of mat- and pro-BDNF and active caspase-3 in the brain regions of 8-day-old rat pups. Taking the level of caspase-3 in the cerebral cortex into account we may conclude that intense apoptosis occurs in this structure; however, the ratio of mat-BDNF to pro-BDNF in this region was the lowest among all structures studied. In contrast, in the brainstem of neonatal rats, where processes of cell proliferation and elimination are completed, the mat-BDNF/pro-BDNF ratio was substantially higher compared to the cortex. The mat-BDNF/pro-BDNF ratio in the cerebellum and hippocampus also supports the inverse relationship between this index and the level of active caspase-3 in different brain regions. Our data suggest that both forms of BDNF are involved in the determination of cell fate in the developing brain.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
