Effect of brain-derived neurotrophic factor on the density of hippocampal microvasculature
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) poses a significant threat to public health both nationally and globally, yet remains without any proven preventions, treatments or cures. It has been identified that both chronic stress and impaired cardiovascular function are among the factors involved in the pathogenesis of dementias such as AD. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in response to chronic stress, has been found to have lowered hippocampal expression in those with AD (8). The goal of this research project is to identify the effects of BDNF on the density of microvasculature in the hipppocampus. Understanding the role of BDNF in the density and structure of microvasculature in brain regions critical to memory and cognitive function such as the hippocampus will help further elucidate the underlying mechanisms that lead to AD and related vascular dementias.
Effect of brain-derived neurotrophic factor on the density of hippocampal microvasculature
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) poses a significant threat to public health both nationally and globally, yet remains without any proven preventions, treatments or cures. It has been identified that both chronic stress and impaired cardiovascular function are among the factors involved in the pathogenesis of dementias such as AD. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in response to chronic stress, has been found to have lowered hippocampal expression in those with AD (8). The goal of this research project is to identify the effects of BDNF on the density of microvasculature in the hipppocampus. Understanding the role of BDNF in the density and structure of microvasculature in brain regions critical to memory and cognitive function such as the hippocampus will help further elucidate the underlying mechanisms that lead to AD and related vascular dementias.