Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 11, 2026

Targeted Knockdown of Genes in the Choroid Plexus
Published on: June 16, 2023
Cell type-specific regulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in states of allergic inflammation
D A Groneberg1, T C Fischer, N Peckenschneider
1Institute of Occupational Medicine, Charité- Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Free University and Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany. groneberg.david@mh-hannover.de
Background:
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a molecule influencing neuronal proliferation and differentiation. In states of allergy, it may orchestrate inflammatory changes by linking the immune system with the nervous system. Because the precise regulation of gene transcription in mast cells MCs is not clear, the present studies assessed the gene regulation of BDNF in this inflammatory cell type.
Methods:
Transcriptional expression of BDNF in human skin was studied in isolated cells using RT-PCR. In situ lesional MC BDNF protein expression was analysed by immunohistochemistry and related to the differential staining of MCs and functional effects of BDNF on HaCaT keratinocytes.
Results:
BDNF mRNA expression was found in isolated human skin MCs, keratinocytes, and fibroblasts. Also, low levels were found in endothelial cells and melanocytes. BDNF protein expression was found in situ in lesional and non-lesional MCs. A significantly decreased expression of BDNF protein was found in atopic dermatitis lesional MCs when compared with control MC expression. Functional in vitro experiments demonstrated that a decrease in BDNF stimulation led to increased secretion rates for stem cell factor and IL-8 in HaCaT keratinocytes.
Conclusion:
The demonstration of a decreased level of BDNF gene transcription in lesional MCs points to a differential regulation of MC-released neutrotrophins in cutaneous allergic inflammation. Topically administered neurotrophin receptor-modulating compounds should be receptor target specific and not universally acting in diseases such as atopic dermatitis or allergic asthma.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
T Cell Types and Functions
Th1 cells stimulate dendritic cells to express necessary co-stimulatory molecules on their surfaces for...
Neural Regulation
Inflammatory Response
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
Neurogenesis and Regeneration of Nervous Tissue
Regulation of Angiogenesis and Blood Supply
Gut-Brain Axis

