Intermittent hypoxia training after C2 hemisection modifies the expression of PTEN and mTOR

In this study, we examined modulations in phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) protein expression after a lateral C2 hemisection and subsequent intermittent hypoxia (IH) exposure and training, which initiates respiratory motor plasticity and recovery. PTEN and mTOR are significant molecules within a signaling pathway that directly influences dendritic sprouting, axonal plasticity, and regeneration. Expression levels of PTEN, mTOR and downstream effectors within this pathway were investigated, and it was found that following injury and IH exposure the expression of these molecules was significantly altered. This study directly demonstrates the implementation and feasibility of a non-invasive strategy to modulate the expression levels of intrinsic signaling molecules known to influence plasticity and regeneration in the CNS.