New insights into brain BDNF function in normal aging and Alzheimer disease
Lucia Tapia-Arancibia1, Esteban Aliaga, Michelle Silhol
1Inserm, U710, Montpellier, F-34095 France. lucia.arancibia@univ-montp2.fr
Brain Research Reviews
|August 19, 2008
Summary
Aging impairs learning and memory by reducing neuronal plasticity. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and its receptors may offer a therapeutic target to promote healthy brain aging and cognitive function.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Aging Research
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Cognitive decline, particularly in learning and memory, is a hallmark of aging.
- Impaired neuronal plasticity underlies cognitive deficits in normal aging and Alzheimer's disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of neurotrophins, specifically Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), in age-related cognitive decline.
- To investigate the potential of modulating BDNF signaling pathways as a therapeutic strategy for healthy aging.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on BDNF, its receptors (TrkB.FL, TrkB.T1, TrkB.T2), and their involvement in brain plasticity.
- Analysis of studies examining changes in BDNF signaling during normal aging and Alzheimer's disease.
- Evaluation of findings related to exogenous BDNF administration and receptor stimulation in preclinical models.
Main Results:
- BDNF and its receptors are crucial for synaptic plasticity in brain regions like the hippocampus and cortex.
- Alterations in BDNF and its receptor expression are observed in aging and Alzheimer's disease.
- Exogenous BDNF or stimulation of its receptors shows potential to counteract age-associated central nervous system changes.
Conclusions:
- BDNF signaling pathways represent a significant physiological reserve that influences aging trajectories.
- Enhancing endogenous BDNF expression or activity is a promising therapeutic avenue for promoting healthy brain aging and cognitive resilience.
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