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Modulation of motoneuron excitability by brain-derived neurotrophic factor
1Department of neurobiology and Behavior, State University of New York at Stony Brook 11794-5230, USA.
Journal of Neurophysiology
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) application in adult rats decreased motoneuron rheobase and cell capacitance, suggesting increased excitability and reduced size. This indicates BDNF may regulate motoneuron electrical properties.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Motor neuron biology
Background:
- Neurotrophins are crucial for motoneuron survival and development.
- The specific role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in adult motoneuron electrical properties is less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of BDNF on the electrical properties of adult rat motoneurons.
- To explore BDNF's potential role as a muscle-derived trophic factor regulating motoneuron excitability.
Main Methods:
- Adult male rats received BDNF or saline-saturated gelfoam implants near gastrocnemius muscles.
- In vivo intracellular recordings were used to measure motoneuron biophysical properties after 5 days.
Main Results:
- BDNF treatment significantly decreased motoneuron rheobase and total cell capacitance.
- A non-significant trend towards increased input resistance and decreased membrane time constant was observed.
- No significant changes were found in conduction velocity, action potential amplitude, or other electrophysiological parameters.
Conclusions:
- BDNF application increases motoneuron excitability and reduces cell size in adult rats.
- These findings support a role for muscle-derived BDNF in regulating motoneuron electrical properties.