Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Signaling in the Pathophysiology of Alzheimer's Disease: Beneficial Effects of Flavonoids for Neuroprotection

Overview

Journal Int J Mol Sci

Publisher MDPI

Specialties Biochemistry
Chemistry
Molecular Biology

Date 2021 Jun 2

PMID 34071978

Citations 39

Authors

Tadahiro Numakawa

Haruki Odaka

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

The function of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) via activation through its high-affinity receptor Tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) has a pivotal role in cell differentiation, cell survival, synaptic plasticity, and both embryonic and adult neurogenesis in central nervous system neurons. A number of studies have demonstrated the possible involvement of altered expression and action of the BDNF/TrkB signaling in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this review, we introduce an essential role of the BDNF and its downstream signaling in neural function. We also review the current evidence on the deregulated the BDNF signaling in the pathophysiology of AD at gene, mRNA, and protein levels. Further, we discuss a potential usefulness of small compounds, including flavonoids, which can stimulate BDNF-related signaling as a BDNF-targeting therapy.

Citing Articles

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