TrkB Activators for the Treatment of Traumatic Vision Loss

摘要: Abstract : Pressure waves due to explosions can damage the neurons of eye and visual centers in brain, leading functional loss vision. There are currently few treatments for such injuries that be deployed rapidly field mitigate damage. Our research team is developing small molecule activators TrkB, cognate receptor brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which administered systemically cross blood brain/retina barrier (BBB). In initial year this grant, we have developed procedures damaging optic nerve initiated experiments establish assays measuring retinal ganglion cell (RGC) after We a novel, rapid assay death using microplate fluorescence measurements. The time course was established, demonstrating most occurs during first six days trauma. new synthesis HIOC, one our lead TrkB activators. Drug tests been initiated, but thus far not observed consistent protection from crush. altering test parameters (dose, timing, administration route) further assess utility drugs improving survival begun construction blast cannon will begin testing soon.