Title:Growth Factors and Astrocytes Metabolism: Possible Roles for Platelet Derived Growth Factor
Volume: 12
Issue: 3
Author(s): Ricardo Cabezas, Marco Avila-Rodriguez, Nelson E. Vega-Vela, Valentina Echeverria, Janneth González, Oscar A. Hidalgo, Altair B. Santos, Gjumrakch Aliev and George E. Barreto
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Astrocyte, growth factors, metabolism, mitochondria, neuroprotection, platelet derived growth factor.
Abstract: Astrocytes exert multiple functions in the brain such as the development of blood–brain barrier characteristics,
the promotion of neurovascular coupling, attraction of cells through the release of chemokines, clearance of toxic substances
and generation of antioxidant molecules and growth factors. In this aspect, astrocytes secrete several growth factors
(BDNF, GDNF, NGF, and others) that are fundamental for cell viability, oxidant protection, genetic expression and
modulation of metabolic functions. The platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), which is expressed by many SNC cells,
including astrocytes, is an important molecule that has shown neuroprotective potential, improvement of wound healing,
regulation of calcium metabolism and mitochondrial function. Here we explore some of these astrocyte-driven functions
of growth factors and their possible therapeutic uses in the context of neurodegeneration.
