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Insulin-Like Growth Factors in the Pathogenesis of Neurological Diseases in Children

Raili Riikonen1

  • 1Child Neurology, Children's Hospital, University of Eastern Finland and Kuopio University Hospital, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland. raili.riikonen@kolumbus.fi.

International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|September 29, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Insulin-like growth factors (IGF-1) are crucial for brain development and neuronal survival. Studies in children suggest IGF-1 therapies show promise for neurological disorders, especially autistic spectrum disorders (ASD).

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Biology
  • Pediatric Neurology

Background:

  • Insulin-like growth factors (IGF-1) are vital for neuronal development, differentiation, survival, and synaptic formation.
  • The developing brain shows the most significant response to IGF-1.
  • Understanding IGF-1's role is critical for pediatric neurological conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the importance of pediatric studies on neurological disorders.
  • To review clinical studies involving IGF-1 in conditions like neonatal asphyxia, infantile spasms, PEHO syndrome, INCL, ASD, and SSPE.
  • To discuss IGF-based therapeutic strategies and approaches for these conditions.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of clinical studies focusing on IGF-1 in pediatric neurological disorders.
  • Analysis of therapeutic strategies and outcomes.
  • Synthesis of current research on IGF-1's role in neurodevelopment and disease.

Main Results:

  • Clinical studies have investigated IGF-1 in various pediatric neurological conditions.
  • IGF-1-based therapeutic strategies are being developed and evaluated.
  • Evidence suggests potential benefits of IGF-1 for specific neurological disorders in children.

Conclusions:

  • IGF-1 plays a significant role in brain development and neuronal health.
  • Therapeutic applications of IGF-1 are being explored for several pediatric neurological disorders.
  • There is considerable optimism regarding the use of IGF-1 as a treatment, particularly for autistic spectrum disorders (ASD).

Keywords:
childreninsulin-like growth factorneonatesneurodegenerationneurodevelopmental disordersneuroprotectionpathogenesis

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