Brain-derived neurotrophic factors inhibit phenylalanine-induced down-regulation of Cdc42, Rac1, and RhoA protein expression in cultured cortical neurons

VernacularTitle:脑源性神经营养因子对苯丙氨酸诱导的Cdc42、Rac1和RhoA蛋白表达的影响
Author: Yongjun ZHANG ; Xiaobing YUAN ; Xuefan GU
Publication Type:Journal Article
Keywords: phenylalanine; brain-derived neurotrophic factor; dendrite; Rho GTPases
From: Journal of Clinical Pediatrics 2009;(11):1074-1078
CountryChina
Language:Chinese
Abstract: Objective To explore whether phenylalanine affect Cdc42, Racl, and RhoA expression and disturb dendritic development. To determine the effects of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on this process. Methods Neurons were cultivated up to 3 days and then treated with 0.9 mmol/L phenylalanine or 100 ng/ml BDNF. Dendritic number were determined by morphologic analysis. Cdc42, Racl, and RhoA protein expression were examined by Western blotting analysis. ResultsThe number of dendrites in cultured neurons reduced two days after being treated with phenylalanine,while BDNF could rescue this change(P < 0.01), furthermore, BDNF was found to inhibit phenylalanineinduced down-regulation of Cdc42, Racl, and RhoA protein expression(P < 0.01). Conclusions Our study indicated that the protective effect of BDNF against phenylalanine-induced neuronal injury is probably mediated by expression of Cdc42, Racl,and RhoA. It suggested a potential neuroprotective action of BDNF in prevention and treatment of brain injury in the patients with phenylketonuria.