This study evaluated the role of gastrocnemius-derived brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and possible mechanism in motor improvement in T10 spinal cord transection (SCT) rats. There was complete paralysis in hindlimbs immediately after SCT, followed by partial functional restoration with time going. The level of BDNF but not its mRNA gradually increased in caudal stump after SCT, whereas a significant increase in both BDNF and its mRNA was simultaneously seen in gastrocnemius. Injection of BDNF antibody into the gastrocnemius significantly decreased hindlimb locomotor function, downregulated the level of BDNF and its mRNA together with extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (Erk1/2). Moreover, ventral root ligation led to decrease both BDNF and Erk in caudal stump, indicating BDNF transportation from gastrocnemius into the spinal cord. We concluded that gastrocnemius-derived BDNF reduced motor functional deficits in SCT rats through Erk signaling pathway. These novel findings suggested the usage of BDNF in muscle for the treatment of spinal cord injury in clinic.
[1]Fourth Mil Med Univ, Tangdu Hosp, Dept Neurosurg, Xian 710038, Peoples R China.
[2]Sichuan Univ, W China Hosp, Dept Neurosurg, Chengdu 610041, Peoples R China.
[3]Gen Hosp Chengdu Mil Command, Dept Anesthesiol, Chengdu 610083, Sichuan, Peoples R China.
[4]Third Mil Med Univ, Daping Hosp, Inst Surg Res, Chongqing 400042, Peoples R China.
[5]Kunming Med Coll, Inst Neurosci, Kunming 650031, Peoples R China.
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