Brain-derived neurotrophic factor: focus on the pathogenesis of multiple myeloma and the development of

Karolina Łuczkowska1, Piotr Kulig1, Bartłomiej Baumert2

  • 1Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland.

Leukemia & Lymphoma
|August 24, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a dual role in multiple myeloma (MM) pathogenesis and treatment. Understanding BDNF

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Neuroscience
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Multiple myeloma (MM) presents complex challenges due to its multifactorial nature, drug resistance, and treatment side effects.
  • Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is implicated in MM pathogenesis, influencing cell proliferation, apoptosis, and viability.
  • Decreased BDNF levels during MM treatment correlate with peripheral neuropathy (PN), highlighting its complex role.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the dual role of BDNF in multiple myeloma (MM).
  • To understand the molecular mechanisms underlying BDNF's action in MM and its relation to peripheral neuropathy (PN).
  • To evaluate BDNF as a potential therapeutic target for improving MM treatment and reducing chemotherapy side effects.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and analysis of existing research on BDNF in MM.
  • Investigation of molecular pathways affected by BDNF in MM cells.
  • Correlation analysis between BDNF levels, MM progression, and PN development.

Main Results:

  • BDNF exhibits a dual role, potentially promoting MM progression while also being linked to neuroprotection.
  • Reduced BDNF levels are associated with the development of PN in MM patients undergoing treatment.
  • The precise molecular functions of BDNF in MM require further elucidation.

Conclusions:

  • BDNF represents a potential therapeutic target in MM, but its complex actions need careful consideration.
  • Optimizing BDNF levels may improve MM treatment outcomes and mitigate chemotherapy-induced PN.
  • Further research into BDNF's molecular mechanisms is crucial for therapeutic development.