Growth factors for neuronal survival and process regeneration. Implications in the mammalian central nervous system

Within the past several years a number of substances have been identified in the mammalian brain that are capable of (1) preventing the death of injured neurons and (2) promoting the regeneration of severed neuronal processes. The goal of this review article is to update the clinical neurologist in this area by presenting a brief, general overview of this subject, including a glimpse at potential clinical implications. Recent advances in neuronal transplantation and molecular techniques underlying nerve growth are discussed. Possible therapeutic approaches are presented for many neurologic disorders, ranging from stroke to Alzheimer's disease to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, based on regrowing or saving injured neurons. The clinical neurologist will become important in practical applications and research into prolonging neuronal survival and fostering axonal regeneration. Over the coming years, with further research, it is anticipated that patients will be treated with these or similar modulatory agents.