Neurotrophin gene therapy in CNS models of trauma and degeneration

摘要: Publisher SummaryMounting evidence over the past decade indicates that the central nervous system (CNS) retains a substantial degree of structural and functional plasticity throughout life. The class of protein molecules termed neurotrophic factors plays a significant role in modulating CNS plasticity. In development, neurotrophic factors promote neuronal survival, stimulate axonal growth, and influence axonal target finding and synaptic function. Further, in adulthood neurotrophic factors can prevent neuronal degeneration, promote axonal regeneration in various animal models of neuronal injury and degeneration, and continue to play a likely role in modulating synaptic function. Neurotrophic factors represent a potential means of manipulating the natural course of neuronal dysfunction after injury, or in the course of neurodegenerative conditions to treat nervous system disease. Several fundamental issues must …