Pleiotropy of tissue-specific growth factors: from neurons to vessels via the bone marrow
Dan G. Duda, Rakesh K. Jain
Dan G. Duda, Rakesh K. Jain
Published March 1, 2005
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2005;115(3):596-598. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI24511.
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Category: Commentary

Pleiotropy of tissue-specific growth factors: from neurons to vessels via the bone marrow

Abstract

Recent evidence has demonstrated that endothelial-specific growth factors affect the development of apparently unrelated organs and cells. Expanding this evidence further, new findings in this issue of the JCI show that neurotrophic factors can affect neovascularization. Neurotrophic factors achieve proangiogenic effects not only by directly affecting endothelial cells, but also by recruiting hematopoietic precursors. Further understanding of the biology of angiogenic factors, as well as of the function of hematopoietic cells in tissue neovascularization, will lead to improved therapeutic strategies for the treatment of diseases ranging from ischemia to cancer.

Authors

Dan G. Duda, Rakesh K. Jain

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Figure 1

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The functional pleiotropy of BDNF extends beyond the nervous system. BDN...
The functional pleiotropy of BDNF extends beyond the nervous system. BDNF, similar to NT-4, exerts its complex signaling effects via TrkB that is present on neurons. These effects include the modulation of neuronal differentiation, survival, and function. In this issue of the JCI, Kermani et al. (10) report a more complex role for this neurotrophic factor: BDNF can mobilize TrkB+ hematopoietic precursor cells (HPCs) for both hematopoiesis and tissue neovascularization. In addition, BDNF can promote angiogenesis by directly interacting with TrkB expressed on ECs.