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Cellular localization of brain-derived neurotrophic factor-like immunoreactivity in adult monkey brain
Y Kawamoto1, S Nakamura, T Kawamata
1Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606, Japan.
Abstract:
Immunohistochemical localization of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the monkey brain was investigated using a polyclonal anti-BDNF antibody produced in our laboratory. The antibody recognized a single band in monkey brain homogenates, and the estimated molecular weight was approximately 14 kDa, which corresponds well to the molecular weight of BDNF monomer. BDNF-like immunoreactivity was observed in the somata and processes of discrete neuronal subpopulations in the monkey brain. BDNF-positive neurons were widely distributed in various structures of the brain, including the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, basal forebrain, basal ganglia, diencephalon, brainstem and cerebellum. In addition, immunopositive glial cells were found in some brain regions. These data suggest that BDNF may exist widely in the monkey brain, and may be concerned with various types of neurons in the monkey central nervous system.
Insights
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is widely distributed in the monkey brain, found in both neurons and glial cells. This suggests BDNF plays a broad role in the central nervous system.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is crucial for neuronal survival, growth, and function.
- Understanding BDNF distribution is key to elucidating its role in the central nervous system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the immunohistochemical localization of BDNF in the adult monkey brain.
- To characterize the cellular distribution of BDNF in various brain regions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a custom-produced polyclonal anti-BDNF antibody for immunohistochemistry.
- Analyzed monkey brain homogenates to confirm antibody specificity and molecular weight (approx. 14 kDa).
Main Results:
- BDNF-like immunoreactivity was detected in neuronal somata and processes across diverse brain areas, including the cortex, hippocampus, basal forebrain, basal ganglia, diencephalon, brainstem, and cerebellum.
- Immunopositive glial cells were also identified in specific brain regions.
- The antibody recognized a single band of approximately 14 kDa, consistent with BDNF monomer.
Conclusions:
- BDNF is widely expressed in the monkey central nervous system.
- BDNF is present in both neuronal and glial cells, indicating a potentially diverse range of functions.
- These findings support a significant role for BDNF in various aspects of primate brain function.