Neurotrophic Factors and Parkinson’s Disease: The Emergence of a New Player?

William Dauer^*

Departments of Neurology and Pharmacology, Columbia University, Neurological Institute of New York, Box 204, 710 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA.

Abstract: The administration of neurotrophic factors is a potential approach to the therapy of neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. However, issues relating to compound delivery and potential side effects have limited the clinical application of this treatment strategy. The identification of CDNF and MANF, which constitute a new class of neurotrophic factors active against dopaminergic neurons, may provide new hope for therapeutic approaches to neurodegenerative disorders based on neurotrophic factors or downstream components of their signaling pathways.

Contact information. *E-mail, wtd3{at}columbia.edu

The editors suggest the following Related Resources on Science sites:

In Science Signaling

PERSPECTIVES
Neuroscience
VGF, a New Player in Antidepressant Action?

Jessica E. Malberg and Lisa M. Monteggia (6 May 2008)
Sci. Signal. 1 (18), pe19. [DOI: 10.1126/stke.118pe19]
 |  Abstract »  |  Full Text »  |  PDF »

EDITORS' CHOICE
Neuroprotection
Food for Thought?

John F. Foley (27 November 2007)
Sci. STKE 2007 (414), tw430. [DOI: 10.1126/stke.4142007tw430]
 |  Abstract »

EDITORS' CHOICE
Stress Responses
PINK Participates in Parkinson’s Pathway

L. Bryan Ray (13 November 2007)
Sci. STKE 2007 (412), tw411. [DOI: 10.1126/stke.4122007tw411]
 |  Abstract »