Electrical Stimulation Promotes BDNF Expression in Spinal Cord Neurons Through Ca2+- and Erk-Dependent Signaling Pathways

Cell Mol Neurobiol, 2011 · DOI: 10.1007/s10571-010-9639-0 · Published: January 23, 2011

Regenerative Medicine Neurology Genetics

Simple Explanation

This study investigates how electrical stimulation promotes the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in spinal cord neurons. The researchers found that electrical stimulation increases BDNF expression in spinal cord neurons both in living organisms (in vivo) and in cultured cells (in vitro). The study suggests that electrical stimulation increases BDNF expression by activating Ca2+- and Erk-dependent signaling pathways.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

15 adult female Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 5) weighing 250 g and embryonic day 14–15 rats

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Electrical stimulation increases BDNF expression in spinal cord neurons both in vivo and in vitro.
2
Inhibition of voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) with nifedipine reduces the BDNF increase produced by electrical stimulation.
3
Inhibition of Erk completely abolishes the effect of electrical stimulation on BDNF expression, and Erk activation is required to maintain baseline levels of BDNF.

Research Summary

The study demonstrates that electrical stimulation enhances BDNF expression in spinal cord neurons both in vivo and in vitro. The increase in BDNF expression is mediated by a Ca2+-dependent pathway, as evidenced by the reduction in BDNF upregulation with nifedipine, a VGCC inhibitor. The Erk signaling pathway is also crucial for BDNF expression, as inhibition of Erk completely abolishes the effect of electrical stimulation, suggesting Erk activation is required for basal BDNF levels.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential

Electrical stimulation may be a therapeutic strategy for promoting nerve regeneration and functional recovery after peripheral nerve injury.

Understanding Mechanisms

The study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of electrical stimulation on BDNF expression, which may aid in developing more targeted therapies.

Drug Development

Targeting Ca2+ channels and Erk signaling pathways could enhance the effects of electrical stimulation or provide alternative strategies for promoting BDNF expression and nerve regeneration.

Study Limitations

1
The precise mechanisms by which electrical stimulation activates Ca2+ and Erk signaling pathways are not fully elucidated.
2
The study primarily focuses on BDNF expression; other factors and pathways involved in nerve regeneration may also be important.
3
The long-term effects of electrical stimulation on nerve regeneration and functional recovery were not assessed.

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