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Related Experiment Videos

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor blocks long-term depression in rat visual cortex

Y Akaneya1, T Tsumoto, H Hatanaka

  • 1Department of Neurophysiology, Osaka University Medical School, Japan.

Journal of Neurophysiology
|December 1, 1996
PubMed
Summary

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) appears to prevent synaptic depression in the developing visual cortex. This neurotrophin inhibits long-term depression (LTD) induced by low-frequency stimulation.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Synaptic Plasticity
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is known to influence long-term potentiation (LTP) in the hippocampus.
  • The role of BDNF in long-term depression (LTD) remains largely uncharacterized.
  • Investigating BDNF's effect on synaptic transmission and LTD in the visual cortex is crucial for understanding neural development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine if BDNF and nerve growth factor (NGF) affect synaptic transmission and LTD in young rat visual cortical slices.
  • To elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying BDNF's influence on synaptic plasticity.

Main Methods:

  • Electrophysiological recordings were performed on visual cortical slices from young rats.
  • Field responses were evoked by stimulating layer IV and recorded in layer II/III.

Related Experiment Videos

  • BDNF and NGF were applied at various concentrations, and the effects on LTD induced by low-frequency stimulation were assessed.
  • The role of receptor tyrosine kinases was investigated using K252a, an inhibitor.

    • Main Results:

    • BDNF at 20 ng/ml prevented the induction of LTD by low-frequency stimulation (1 Hz).
    • Higher concentrations of BDNF (200 ng/ml) enhanced field responses.
    • Nerve growth factor (NGF) did not exhibit similar effects on LTD.
    • The BDNF-mediated prevention of LTD was blocked by K252a, suggesting a role for receptor tyrosine kinases.
    • Application of K252a alone resulted in a greater magnitude of LTD.

    Conclusions:

    • Endogenous BDNF likely plays a protective role against synaptic depression in the developing visual cortex.
    • BDNF may prevent synapses from weakening in response to sustained low-frequency activity.
    • These findings highlight BDNF's critical involvement in regulating synaptic plasticity during critical developmental periods.