Promotion of Neuronal Survival Through Secretion of Growth Factors

The promotion of neuronal survival through the secretion of growth factors is a critical process for the development, maintenance, and function of the nervous system. Key growth factors like BDNF, NGF, NT-3, and FGF2 bind to their respective receptors on neurons, initiating intracellular signaling cascades that promote cell survival, differentiation, and synaptic plasticity. Dysregulation of growth factor signaling is implicated in various neurological and psychiatric disorders, making it a potential therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases, depression, and other conditions. However, challenges remain in terms of targeted delivery, potential side effects, and the complex interplay of different growth factors and their receptors.

Other names

Neurotrophic factor signalingGrowth factor signaling in neuronal survivalBDNF signalingNGF signalingNeurotrophin signaling

Growth factors bind to their respective receptors (e.g., Trk family, p75NTR) on the neuronal cell surface, triggering intracellular signaling cascades that promote cell survival, differentiation, and synaptic plasticity. These pathways often involve activation of kinases such as MAPK/ERK, PI3K/Akt, and transcription factors like NF-kB, which inhibit apoptosis and promote expression of pro-survival genes. Some precursors like proBDNF bind p75NTR leading to apoptosis.