Retrograde transport of neurotrophic factor signaling: implications in neuronal development and pathogenesis

Neurotrophic factors and their receptors play a central role in neuronal survival. Since neurons have a highly polarized morphology, target-derived neurotrophic factor signaling is transported retrogradely along the axon to the cell body. A body of evidence suggests that retrograde transport of the neurotrophic factors and their receptors is required for signal propagation. Retrograde transport of neurotrophic factor signaling is crucial not only for neuronal development, but also for preventing neuronal degeneration. Thus, elucidating the mechanism of retrograde transport will lead to insights into the developmental mechanisms of the nervous system as well as contribute to the establishment of novel therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. In this article, we will review the recent progress made in research of retrograde trafficking and discuss its physiological significance.