The Neurotrophic Substances and Behavioral Recovery from Brain Damage.
Abstract
Recent developments in neuroscience research have shown that neurotrophic substances, both endogenous and systematically administered, may play an important role in mediating functional recovery from traumatic injuries to the central nervous system and spinal cord. In our laboratory, we have been able to demonstrate that intracerebrally administered Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and systemically administered gangliosides (GM-1) can markedly improve post-traumatic performance in brain-damaged, adult rats. In contrast, polyamine administration was not effective when given to adult, brain-injured subjects. In addition, we have shown that transplants of fetal brain tissue into damaged, adult, host brains can attenuate the symptoms produced by the brain lesions and that the transplants form anatomical connectors with the host brain. I proposed to use both behavioral and anatomical techniques to continue and extend research on the role of neurotrophic substances, including brain transplants, in mediating functional recovery from brain injuries. Specifically, I proposed to examine whether: there are long-lasting effects of repeated injections of neurotrophic substances such as NGF and GM-1; treatments can be given at various times after injury is sustained and still be effective in promoting functional recovery; combinations of neurotrophic substances can be given to enhance the recovery process.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA189117
Entities
People
- Donald G. Stein
Organizations
- Clark University