Question 1

What is the Meaning of Neurotrophic Hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

The Neurotrophic Hypothesis posits that the survival, differentiation, and maintenance of specific neuronal populations are dependent upon the continuous availability of specialized signaling proteins known as neurotrophins. This concept suggests that neurological health and function are critically linked to the balance between neurotrophin production and neuronal receptor availability. Clinically, a decline in neurotrophic support is implicated in the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. The hypothesis provides a framework for therapeutic interventions aimed at boosting endogenous neurotrophin levels or mimicking their beneficial effects to promote neural resilience.

Question 2

What is the Origin of Neurotrophic Hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

This fundamental hypothesis originated from the pioneering work on Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) in the 1950s, which demonstrated that target tissues release factors essential for innervating neuron survival. The term 'neurotrophic' itself signifies "nerve nourishment." It was initially developed to explain developmental neuronal pruning but was later extended to explain the maintenance and plasticity of the adult nervous system. The hypothesis remains a core principle in modern neurobiology and pharmacological development.

Question 3

What is the Mechanism of Neurotrophic Hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

The mechanism is based on the paracrine or autocrine signaling loop where target cells secrete neurotrophins, which are then taken up by the axon terminals of innervating neurons. These factors bind to their cognate high-affinity Trk receptors, initiating retrograde transport of the signaling complex back to the neuronal cell body. In the nucleus, this signal activates transcription factors, leading to the expression of anti-apoptotic and pro-survival genes. This sustained signaling ensures the neuron's metabolic health and its ability to maintain synaptic connections.

Neurotrophic Hypothesis

Meaning

Origin

Mechanism

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