Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which acts through its receptor tropomyosin-related kinase receptor type B, has diverse effects on neuronal function and survival in the adult brain. Nagahara and Tuszynski review the potential therapeutic use of BDNF in the treatment of various disorders of the central nervous system, such as Alzheimer's disease, and discuss the challenges to effective delivery of BDNF and possible strategies to overcome them.
- Alan H. Nagahara
- Mark H. Tuszynski
