Brain-derived neurotrophic factor is critically involved in thermal-experience-dependent developmental plasticity.

ABSTRACT: All species exhibit critical period for sensory development, yet very little is known about the molecules involved in the changes in the network wiring that underlies this process. Here the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the critical period of thermal control establishment in chicks was investigated. Neuroanatomically, the body temperature is balanced by the preoptic anterior hypothalamus (PO/AH) and controlled by thermosensitive neurons. Exposure to hot or cold conditions during the critical period of temperature control development causes a plastic change in the ratio between heat- and cold-sensitive cells and can modulate temperature tolerance. It was found that expression of BDNF mRNA but not of NGF or neurotrophin-3 was induced in the PO/AH of 3-d-old chicks durin

SUBMITTER: Katz A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6673892 | biostudies-literature | 2006 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature