Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 23, 2026

Inducing Dendritic Growth in Cultured Sympathetic Neurons
Published on: March 21, 2012
Local effects of BDNF on dendritic growth
1Duke University, USA. hhorch@bowdoin.edu
Abstract:
The development of dendrites is a crucial step in the formation of cortical circuitry. The morphogen brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may mediate the effects of activity on dendritic morphology since its expression and release are thought to be activity-dependent. Using two-photon microscopy, the autocrine and paracrine effects of BDNF on dendritic morphology were assessed. Overexpression of BDNF profoundly altered the form and stability of basal dendritic arbors via an autocrine mechanism. Paracrine BDNF also altered dendritic branching, though in a highly local fashion. BDNF is capable of acting as an intercellular morphogen, and could hypothetically shape dendritic arbors to best fit the developing structure and function of the pre-synaptic circuit.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Long-term Depression
Long-term Depression
Calcium Ion Concentration Mechanism
If over time, all...
Long-term Potentiation
Hebbian LTP
LTP can occur when presynaptic neurons...
Long-term Potentiation
Neuroplasticity
Neurogenesis and Regeneration of Nervous Tissue

