The neurotrophic factor concept: a reexamination

• DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.13-07-02739.1993
• Publication Date: 2018-03-31T01:12:09Z
• Authors: S Korsching
• Keywords: Neurite; Premovement neuronal activity; Neurotransmitter Agents

The neurotrophic factor concept in its basic form envisages that innervated tissues produce a signal for the innervating neurons selective limitation of neuronal death occurring during development (Purves, 1986; Oppenheim, 1991). This arose several decades ago on basis observation experimental manipulation amount target tissue could modulate size populations. By making survival dependent their target, nature would provide means to match neuron and cell NGF, discovered 1950s, represents first known molecular realization concept. NGF was found regulate survival, neurite growth, neurotransmitter production particular type, sympathetic PNS. produced by cells is specifically bound internalized neurons, followed retrograde axonal transport soma, where exerts effects via cotransported receptor molecule (Levi-Montalcini, 1987; Thoenen et al., 1987). Strictly speaking, increased growth are not trophic effects; however, I will use term “neurotrophic” extended meaning enhancing differentiation as well survival. It expected these results be generalized model multiple, mutually independent, messengers, which synthesized distinct areas act restricted types (Fig. 1). assumption leads conceptually simple way arrange maintain variety subsystems. One might call this modular approach construction nervous system. hypothesis multiple signals has gained widespread support recent years. Originally proposed PNS, CNS, synthesize factors afferent (Ernfors 1990b). In addition family NGF-related molecules (now commonly called neurotrophins), thought exert influences (DiStefano 1992), been identified.