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Related Experiment Videos

Mice lacking brain-derived neurotrophic factor develop with sensory deficits

P Ernfors1, K F Lee, R Jaenisch

  • 1Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge 02142.

Nature
|March 10, 1994
PubMed
Summary

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is crucial for the survival and proper innervation of specific neurons during development. Mutant mice lacking BDNF show sensory deficits and impaired neuronal connections.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Neuronal survival during vertebrate development is regulated by neurotrophic factors.
  • Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a key neurotrophin involved in neuronal survival and development.
  • BDNF has demonstrated protective effects on various neuronal populations in vitro and after lesions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of BDNF in vivo during vertebrate development.
  • To determine the consequences of BDNF deficiency on neuronal survival and function.
  • To identify specific neuronal populations dependent on BDNF.

Main Methods:

  • Generation and analysis of mutant mice lacking functional BDNF.
  • Assessment of neuronal survival and degeneration in sensory ganglia and other neuronal populations.

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  • Evaluation of axonal targeting and innervation of sensory epithelia.

    • Main Results:

    • Mice lacking BDNF exhibited severe coordination and balance deficits.
    • Significant degeneration was observed in multiple sensory ganglia, notably the vestibular ganglion.
    • Axons from remaining vestibular neurons failed to innervate sensory epithelia, terminating ectopically.
    • Survival of sympathetic, midbrain dopaminergic, and motor neurons remained unaffected.

    Conclusions:

    • BDNF is essential for the survival of specific neuronal populations, particularly within the sensory system.
    • BDNF plays a critical role in ensuring proper target innervation by sensory neurons.
    • The study highlights the indispensable function of BDNF in the development and maintenance of the nervous system.