Abstract
ransforming growth factor betas (TGF-betas) are multifunctional cytokines with widespread distribution.In the nervous system the biological effects of TGF-beta cover regulation of proliferation, migration, differentiation, survival and death. Specifically, the effects of TGF-(3 on mesencephalic DAergic neurons extend from induction and specification of the dopaminergic phenotype via promotion of survival to neuroprotection in animal models of parkinsonism. Experimental in vitro and in vivo models have contributed to a better understanding of the putative mechanisms underlying the effects of TGF-beta on DAergic neurons and unravelled synergisms between members of the TGF-beta superfamily. In this chapter, we will review the literature available with focus on TGF-beta proper and glial cell-line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF).
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Cell Differentiation / drug effects
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Cell Differentiation / genetics
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Cell Survival / drug effects
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Cell Survival / genetics
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Cytoprotection / drug effects
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Cytoprotection / genetics
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Dopamine / metabolism*
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Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor / genetics
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Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor / metabolism
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Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor / pharmacology
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Humans
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Neurons / cytology
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Neurons / metabolism*
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Parkinson Disease / genetics
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Parkinson Disease / metabolism
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Parkinson Disease / therapy
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Substantia Nigra / cytology
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Substantia Nigra / growth & development*
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Substantia Nigra / metabolism*
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Transforming Growth Factor beta / genetics
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Transforming Growth Factor beta / metabolism*
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Transforming Growth Factor beta / pharmacology
Substances
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Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor
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Transforming Growth Factor beta
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Dopamine