Imagine you’re solving a complex puzzle, trying to piece together the role of platelet-derived growth factors (PDGFs) in Parkinson’s disease (PD). PD, a common neurodegenerative disease that affects the elderly, is like a mystery waiting to be unraveled. PDGFs and their receptors, PDGFRs, play an important role in the nervous system, influencing various functions which may contribute to PD pathogenesis. They are like key players with unique structures that unlock vital processes within our brain. This review dives deep into the mechanisms through which PDGFs/PDGFRs impact oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, protein folding, calcium regulation, and neuroinflammation. Different types of PDGFs have different effects on nerve cells, adding complexity to the puzzle. But as we explore clinical applications and genetic treatments involving PDGFs, we discover their contradictory roles in the central nervous system. While they offer neuroprotection through multiple pathways, they can also disrupt the blood-brain barrier. The findings call for further investigation into these conflicting effects of PDGFs on the CNS.
If you’re ready to delve into this fascinating research on PDGFs and their implications for Parkinson’s disease, grab your metaphorical magnifying glass and journey into the full article!
Parkinson’s disease (PD), the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s disease, commonly occurs in the elderly population, causing a significant medical and economic burden to the aging society worldwide. At present, there are few effective methods that achieve satisfactory clinical results in the treatment of PD. Platelet-derived growth factors (PDGFs) and platelet-derived growth factor receptors (PDGFRs) are important neurotrophic factors that are expressed in various cell types. Their unique structures allow for specific binding that can effectively regulate vital functions in the nervous system. In this review, we summarized the possible mechanisms by which PDGFs/PDGFRs regulate the occurrence and development of PD by affecting oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, protein folding and aggregation, Ca2+ homeostasis, and cell neuroinflammation. These modes of action mainly depend on the type and distribution of PDGFs in different nerve cells. We also summarized the possible clinical applications and prospects for PDGF in the treatment of PD, especially in genetic treatment. Recent advances have shown that PDGFs have contradictory roles within the central nervous system (CNS). Although they exert neuroprotective effects through multiple pathways, they are also associated with the disruption of the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Our recommendations based on our findings include further investigation of the contradictory neurotrophic and neurotoxic effects of the PDGFs acting on the CNS.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.