BDNF and its signaling in cancer

Glycosylation in neurodevelopment: What oncology teaches?

Neurodevelopment is a highly complex process, sensitive to a multitude of signaling pathways linked to molecular processes involved in neuronal development and function, metabolism, and immune functions. Key pathways include cell-cycle regulation (PI3K/Akt/mTOR, p53/PTEN), JAK-STAT, Notch, SLIT/Robo, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cellular homeostasis processes such as apoptosis, autophagy and hypoxia. Transcription regulation (including histone and epigenetic regulation) and immune regulation (NF-kB, Toll-like receptors (TLRs)) play a crucial role. Glycosylation abnormalities related to these molecular processes have been described in cancer. However, while cancer research and therapies have been revolutionized by the study of glycosylation, mechanistic insights and therapeutic approaches are still struggling to develop in neurodevelopmental pathologies. This study is a blueprint to unravel the key pathological pathways in neurodevelopment by highlighting the benefits of studying the associated regulatory processes of glycosylation, which have led to major advances in cancer research.

Psilocybin and psilocin regulate microglial immunomodulation and support neuroplasticity via serotonergic and AhR signaling

BACKGROUND

Psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, has demonstrated therapeutic potential in neuropsychiatric disorders. While its neuroplastic and immunomodulatory effects are recognized, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigates how psilocybin and its active metabolite, psilocin, influence microglial inflammatory responses and neurotrophic factor expression through serotonergic and AhR signaling.

METHODS

Using in vitro models of resting and LPS-activated microglia, we evaluated the effects of psilocybin and psilocin on the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α), anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10), and neuroplasticity-related markers (BDNF). Receptor-specific contributions were assessed using selective antagonists for 5-HT2A, 5-HT2B, 5-HT7, TrkB, and AhR.

RESULTS

Psilocybin and psilocin significantly suppressed TNF-α expression and increased BDNF levels in LPS-activated microglia. These effects were mediated by 5-HT2A, 5-HT2B, 5-HT7, and TrkB signaling, while AhR activation was required for psilocin-induced BDNF upregulation but not TNF-α suppression. IL-10 levels remained unchanged under normal conditions but increased significantly when serotonergic, TrkB, or AhR signaling was blocked, suggesting a compensatory shift in anti-inflammatory pathways.

CONCLUSION

Psilocybin and psilocin promote a microglial phenotype that reduces inflammation and supports neuroplasticity via receptor-specific mechanisms. Their effects on TNF-α and BDNF depend on distinct serotonergic and neurotrophic pathways, with AhR playing a selective role in psilocin's action. These findings clarify the receptor-mediated dynamics of psilocybin's therapeutic effects and highlight alternative anti-inflammatory pathways that may be relevant for clinical applications.

TGFβ1 and RGD Cooperatively Regulate SMAD2/3-Mediated Oncogenic Effects in Prostate Cancer Cells in Bio-Orthogonally Constructed Hydrogels

To recapitulate prostate cancer metastasis, DU145 cells were cultured in a hyaluronic acid-based, bio-orthogonally constructed, protease-degradable hydrogels. In the presence of a covalently conjugated integrin-binding peptide (GRGDSP), DU145 cells formed tumoroids and exhibited small protrusions. Upon addition of soluble transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1), cells underwent morphological changes to form extended interconnected cellular networks. Contrarily, in RGD-free hydrogels, cells maintained spherical structures even in the presence of TGFβ1. In RGD-conjugated hydrogels, TGFβ1 induced nuclear localization of SMAD2/3, upregulating a wide range of TGFβ1 target genes and proteins. Prolonged exposure to TGFβ1 led to matrix remodeling and induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in DU145 cells, with loss of epithelial markers and gain of mesenchymal markers. A pharmacological inhibitor of TGFβRI/ALK5, SB-431542, attenuated TGFβ1-induced morphological changes, abrogated nuclear localization of SMAD2/3, and restored the expression of key epithelial markers. Our findings highlight the cooperative role of TGFβ1 signaling and integrin-binding peptide in the acquisition of an aggressive phenotype and the promotion of tumor progression.

Cancer-nervous system crosstalk: from biological mechanism to therapeutic opportunities

A growing body of research suggests a bidirectional interaction between cancer and the nervous system. Neural cells exert their effects on tumors by secreting neurotransmitters and cell adhesion molecules, which interact with specific receptors on tumor cells to modulate their behavior. Conversely, tumor-secreted factors, particularly including inflammatory factors, can alter neural activity and increase neuronal excitability, potentially contributing to neurological manifestations such as epilepsy. The immune system also serves as a crucial intermediary in the indirect communication between cancer and the nervous system. These insights have opened promising avenues for novel therapeutic strategies targeting both tumors and their associated neurological complications. In this review, we have synthesized the key biological mechanisms underlying cancer-nervous system interactions that have emerged over the past decade. We outline the molecular and cellular pathways mediating this cross-talk and explore the clinical implications of targeting the nervous system to suppress tumor growth and metastasis, mitigate neurological complications arising from cancer progression, and modulate the immune response through neural regulation in the context of cancer therapy.

Role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in frailty: From mechanisms to interventions

Frailty is a common medical syndrome which largely increases the risk of disability, depression, falls, hospitalization and mortality. An increasing number of research suggests that frailty is reversible by medical interventions at its early stage. Therefore, efficient detection is utterly important for frail population. Since numerous biological processes have been indicated in frail population, the critical regulators in these biological processes could provide biomarkers for early detection or treatment for frailty. The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been associated with several biological process ranging from cognitive function to inflammation, therefore it could be an important regulator for frailty. In this review, we would discuss the mechanism association between different indicators of frailty and BDNF. Furthermore, we summarize the approaches to interfere with BDNF in healthy and pathologic condition, which could lead to identification of potential interventional strategies for frailty.

Neurotransmitter power plays: the synaptic communication nexus shaping brain cancer

Gliomas and brain metastases are notorious for their dismal prognosis and low survival rates, a challenge exacerbated by our incomplete grasp of the complex dynamics that govern brain cancers. Recently, a groundbreaking paradigm shift has emerged, highlighting the crucial role of synaptic communication between neurons and brain tumor cells in reshaping neuronal signaling to favor tumor growth. This review delves into the pivotal interplay of synaptic mechanisms, focusing on excitatory glutamatergic and inhibitory GABAergic pathways. Glutamatergic synapses utilize glutamate to propagate excitatory signals, while GABAergic synapses employ gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) to inhibit neuronal firing. Glutamatergic signaling can be broadly classified into ionotropic (NMDAR, AMPAR and kainite receptors) and metabotropic subtypes. The harmonious orchestration of these synaptic types is essential for normal brain function, and their dysregulation is implicated in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and epilepsy. Emerging evidence reveals that glioma and brain metastatic cells exploit these synaptic pathways and neurotransmitters to enhance their proliferation and survival. In this review, we will first explore the intricate mechanisms underlying glutamatergic and GABAergic signaling. Next, we will summarize recent advancements in understanding how brain cancer cells hijack these pathways to their advantage. Finally, we will propose novel therapeutic strategies aimed at disrupting the aberrant neuron-tumor synaptic communication, offering potential treatment strategies for combating these otherwise incurable brain cancers.

BDNF is a prognostic biomarker involved in the immune infiltration of lung adenocarcinoma and associated with programmed cell death

It is well established that genes associated with cell death can serve as prognostic markers for patients with cancer. Programmed cell death (PCD) is known to play a role in cancer cell apoptosis and antitumor immunity. With the continuous discovery of new forms of PCD, the roles of PCD in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) require ongoing evaluation. In the present study, mRNA expression data and clinical information associated with 15 forms of PCD were extracted from publicly available databases and systematically analyzed. Utilizing these data, a robust risk prediction model was established that incorporates six PCD-related genes (PRGs). Datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus database were employed to validate the six genes exhibiting risk-associated characteristics. The PRG-based model reliably predicted the prognosis of patients with LUAD, with the high-risk group showing a poor prognosis, reduced levels of immune infiltration molecules and diminished expression of human leukocyte antigens. Additionally, the relationships among PRGs, somatic mutations, tumor stemness index and immune infiltration were assessed. Based on these risk characteristics, a nomogram was constructed, patient stratification was performed, small-molecule drug candidates were predicted, and somatic mutations and chemotherapy responses were analyzed. Furthermore, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR was used to assess the expression of PDGs in vitro, and the critical role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in LUAD development was identified through Mendelian randomization, gene knockdown, wound healing, western blot and colony formation assays. These findings offer new insights into the development of targeted therapies for LUAD, particularly in patients with high BDNF expression.

Decoding the Role of Neurotrophins in Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3-Beta Regulation in Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the most prevalent contributor to dementia in elderly individuals. Numerous signalling pathways influencing AD pathophysiology, involving glycogen synthase kinase-3β (Gsk-3β), have been investigated extensively as potential therapeutic targets. Gsk-3β is a critical factor in AD pathogenesis that affects several key hallmarks of the disease notably tau phosphorylation, amyloid-β generation, cognition, neurogenesis, and synaptic integrity. Neurotrophins are small proteins that are critical for maintaining neuronal health and function and may be used to treat neurodegenerative diseases. Notably, the dysregulation of certain neurotrophins and their receptors is also linked with AD which is a major contributor to neurodegeneration. Studies indicated that neurotrophins and their modulators are capable of protecting neurons by blocking the Gsk-3β activity suggesting a potential link for neuroprotection. Neurotrophins support the survival of neurons by regulating Gsk-3β activity. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) signalling pathways activate Trk receptors that trigger downstream signalling cascades that subsequently inhibit Gsk-3β activity and reduce AD-related neuropathology. We also explore the role of modulators including phosphatases, kinase cascades, and other regulatory proteins that cross paths with neurotrophin-Gsk-3β signalling. In conclusion, this manuscript summarizes both direct and indirect regulatory roles of neurotrophins and modulators on Gsk-3β to understand the intricate mechanisms driving neurodegeneration in AD.

Targeting SLITRK4 Restrains Proliferation and Liver Metastasis in Colorectal Cancer via Regulating PI3K/AKT/NFκB Pathway and Tumor-Associated Macrophage

Liver metastasis is the major cause of death in colorectal cancer (CRC) due to the lack of effective treatment. To explore novel drivers of CRC liver metastasis, the transcriptomes of primary paracancerous, colorectal tumors and metastases from human patients are profiled. It is found that SLIT- and NTRK-like family member 4 (SLITRK4) is the top upregulated gene in liver metastases and is associated with worse overall survival of CRC patients. Multiple in vitro and in vivo models suggested SLITRK4 promoted CRC tumorigenesis, invasion, migration, and angiogenesis, and inhibition of it restrained CRC tumor growth and liver metastasis with a more profound effect on the tumor microenvironment (TME). Mechanistically, SLITRK4 overexpression significantly activated the PI3K/AKT/NFκB pathway, regulated extracellular matrix organization, and multiple cytokines expression. Furthermore, the results from coculture models and single-cell RNA sequencing analyses suggested SLITRK4 promoted tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) infiltration and polarization. In addition, macrophage depletion significantly inhibited SLITRK4-induced liver metastasis in CRC. Finally, pharmacological inhibition of SLITRK4 by using lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (NPs) for systemic siRNA delivery can effectively inhibit CRC liver metastasis. Taken together, these results pinpoint that SLITRK4 regulates CRC tumorigenesis and liver metastasis, and siRNA delivering NPs agents validate the therapeutic potential of targeting SLITRK4 in CRC.

Impact and Mechanisms of Action of BDNF on Neurological Disorders, Cancer, and Cardiovascular Diseases

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is primarily expressed in the brain and nervous tissues, is the most abundant neurotrophic factor in the adult brain. BDNF serves not only as a major neurotrophic signaling agent in the human body but also as a crucial neuromodulator. Widely distributed throughout the central nervous system (CNS), both BDNF and its receptors play a significant role in promoting neuronal survival and growth, thereby exerting neuroprotective effects. It is further considered as a guiding medium for the functionality and structural plasticity of the CNS. Increasingly, research has indicated the critical importance of BDNF in understanding human diseases. Activation of intracellular signaling pathways such as the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin pathway, and phospholipase C γ pathway by BDNF can all potentially enhance the growth, survival, proliferation, and migration of cancer cells, influencing cancer development. The loss of BDNF and its receptor, tropomyosin receptor kinase B, in signaling pathways is also associated with increased susceptibility to brain and heart diseases. Additionally, reduced BDNF levels in both the central and peripheral systems have been closely linked to various neurogenic diseases, including neuropathic pain and psychiatric disorders. As such, this review summarizes and analyzes the impact of BDNF on neurogenic diseases, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. This study thereby aimed to elucidate its effects on these diseases to provide new insights and approaches for their treatment.

Effects of short- and long-term exercise training on cancer cells in vitro: Insights into the mechanistic associations

Exercise is a therapeutic approach in cancer treatment, providing several benefits. Moreover, exercise is associated with a reduced risk for developing a range of cancers and for their recurrence, as well as with improving survival, even though the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Preclinical and clinical evidence shows that the acute effects of a single exercise session can suppress the growth of various cancer cell lines in vitro. This suppression is potentially due to altered concentrations of hormones (e.g., insulin) and cytokines (e.g., tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin 6) after exercise. These factors, known to be involved in tumorigenesis, may explain why exercise is associated with reduced cancer incidence, recurrence, and mortality. However, the effects of short- (<8 weeks) and long-term (≥8 weeks) exercise programs on cancer cells have been reported with mixed results. Although more research is needed, it appears that interventions incorporating both exercise and diet seem to have greater inhibitory effects on cancer cell growth in both apparently healthy subjects as well as in cancer patients. Although speculative, these suppressive effects on cancer cells may be driven by changes in body weight and composition as well as by a reduction in low-grade inflammation often associated with sedentary behavior, low muscle mass, and excess fat mass in cancer patients. Taken together, such interventions could alter the systemic levels of suppressive circulating factors, leading to a less favorable environment for tumorigenesis. While regular exercise and a healthy diet may establish a more cancer-suppressive environment, each acute bout of exercise provides a further "dose" of anticancer medicine. Therefore, integrating regular exercise could potentially play a significant role in cancer management, highlighting the need for future investigations in this promising area of research.

LINC01094: A key long non-coding RNA in the regulation of cancer progression and therapeutic targets

LINC01094 is a long non-coding RNA that plays a crucial role in cancer progression by modulating key signaling pathways, such as PI3K/AKT, Wnt/β-catenin and TGF-β Signaling Pathway Feedback Loop. In this review we summarize the recent research on the functional mechanisms of LINC01094 in various cancers, including its impact on tumor growth, metastasis, and resistance to therapy. We also discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting LINC01094 and highlight the current strategies and challenges in this area. Perspectives on future development of LINC01094-based therapies are also provided.

Associations between genetically predicted concentrations of plasma proteins and the risk of prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a leading cause of cancer-related death in men. Understanding the proteomic landscape associated with PCa risk can provide insights into its molecular mechanisms and pave the way for potential therapeutic interventions.

METHODS

A proteome-wide Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was employed to determine associations between genetically predicted protein concentrations in plasma and PCa risk. From an initial list of 4,364 proteins, significant associations were identified and validated. Multiple sensitivity analyses were also conducted to enhance the robustness of our findings.

RESULTS

Of the 4,364 genetically predicted proteins, 308 exhibited preliminary associations with PCa risk. After rigorous statistical refinement, genetically predicted concentrations of 14 proteins showed positive associations with PCa risk, with odds ratios spanning from 1.55 (95% CI 1.28-1.87) for ATG4B to 2.67 (95% CI 1.94-3.67) for HCN1. In contrast, genetically predicted concentrations of ATG7, B2M, MSMB, and TMEM108 demonstrated inverse associations with PCa. The replication analysis further substantiated positive associations for MDH1 and LSM1, and a negative one for MSMB with PCa. A meta-analysis harmonizing primary and replication data mirrored these findings. Furthermore, the MVMR analysis pinpointed B2M and MSMB as having significant associations with PCa risk.

CONCLUSION

The genetic evidence unveils a refined set of proteins associated with PCa risk. The findings underscore the potential of these proteins as molecular markers or therapeutic targets for PCa, calling for deeper mechanistic studies and exploration into their translational relevance.

Effects of Exercise-Induced Changes in Myokine Expression on the Tumor Microenvironment

In this narrative review, we summarize the direct and indirect effects that myokines have on the tumor microenvironment. We took studies of various cancer types and species into account. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses that matched the search terms were also considered. We searched databases for six months. As a narrative approach was chosen, no data was analyzed or reanalyzed. The goal of this narrative review is to create an overview on the topic to identify research gaps and answer the questions as to whether myokine expression may be relevant in cancer research in regard to the tumor microenvironment. Six commonly known myokines were chosen. We found strong links between the influence exercise has on interleukin-6, oncostatin M, secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine, and irisin in the context of tumor progression and inhibition via interactions with the tumor microenvironment. It became clear that the effects of myokines on the tumor microenvironment can vary and contribute to disease progression or regression. Interactions among myokines and immune cells must also be considered and require further investigation. To date, no study has shown a clear connection, while multiple studies suggest further investigation of the topic, similar to the effects of exercise on myokine expression.

Whole transcriptome sequencing identifies a competitive endogenous RNA network that regulates the immunity of bladder cancer

Several types of non-coding RNAs such as circRNAs, lncRNAs, and miRNAs have been identified to regulate mRNAs through the mechanism known as the competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network. To explore the role of the ceRNA regulatory network in the immune microenvironment of bladder cancer, whole-transcriptome sequencing of bladder tumor and its peritumoral tissues from 38 bladder cancer patients, with a total of 63 samples, was performed to screen differentially expressed circ-, lnc-, mi-, and mRNAs to construct a circ/lnc-mi-mRNA regulatory network with pruning algorithms. We excavated a key immune-related gene BDNF to build the final ceRNA network as hsa-miR-107 sponged by hsa-circ-000211, AC108488.1, and LINC00163. Finally, a meta-analysis of 7 public datasets demonstrated that low expression of BDNF and high expression of hsa-miR-107 were associated with longer survival. Our study identified a ceRNA regulatory network as a potentially new prognostic marker and molecular therapeutic target of bladder cancer.

Sarcopenia as a Risk Factor for Alzheimer's Disease: Genetic and Epigenetic Perspectives

Sarcopenia, defined as the age-associated loss of muscle mass and increased fragility with age, is increasing worldwide. The condition often precedes the development of Alzheimer's disease, thereby decreasing the levels of mobility and physical activity in those affected. Indeed, the loss of muscle mass has, in some studies, been associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. However, a detailed understanding of the interplay between both conditions is not available and needs to be thoroughly addressed. In the following review, we focus on several genes, specifically APOE, BDNF, ACE, FTO, and FNDC5, that have been associated with both conditions. We also discuss the epigenetic regulation of each of these genes along with non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that may have a role in the development of both the sarcopenic and Alzheimer's disease phenotypes. Finally, we assert that the application of systems biology will unravel the relationship between sarcopenia and Alzheimer's disease and believe that the prevention of muscle loss in older age will reduce the incidence of debilitating cognitive decline.

Natural products for the treatment of chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment and prospects of nose-to-brain drug delivery

Chemotherapy-related cognitive deficits (CRCI) as one of the common adverse drug reactions during chemotherapy that manifest as memory, attention, and executive function impairments. However, there are still no effective pharmacological therapies for the treatment of CRCI. Natural compounds have always inspired drug development and numerous natural products have shown potential therapeutic effects on CRCI. Nevertheless, improving the brain targeting of natural compounds in the treatment of CRCI is still a problem to be overcome at present and in the future. Accumulated evidence shows that nose-to-brain drug delivery may be an excellent carrier for natural compounds. Therefore, we reviewed natural products with potential anti-CRCI, focusing on the signaling pathway of these drugs' anti-CRCI effects, as well as the possibility and prospect of treating CRCI with natural compounds based on nose-to-brain drug delivery in the future. In conclusion, this review provides new insights to further explore natural products in the treatment of CRCI.

Nerve Growth Factor and the Role of Inflammation in Tumor Development

Nerve growth factor (NGF) plays a dual role both in inflammatory states and cancer, acting both as a pro-inflammatory and oncogenic factor and as an anti-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic mediator in a context-dependent way based on the signaling networks and its interaction with diverse cellular components within the microenvironment. This report aims to provide a summary and subsequent review of the literature on the role of NGF in regulating the inflammatory microenvironment and tumor cell growth, survival, and death. The role of NGF in inflammation and tumorigenesis as a component of the inflammatory system, its interaction with the various components of the respective microenvironments, its ability to cause epigenetic changes, and its role in the treatment of cancer have been highlighted in this paper.

Cell-cell communication characteristics in breast cancer metastasis

Breast cancer, a highly fatal disease due to its tendency to metastasize, is the most prevalent form of malignant tumors among women worldwide. Numerous studies indicate that breast cancer exhibits a unique predilection for metastasis to specific organs including the bone, liver, lung, and brain. However, different types of, The understanding of the heterogeneity of metastatic breast cancer has notably improved with the recent advances in high-throughput sequencing techniques. Focusing on the modification in the microenvironment of the metastatic organs and the crosstalk between tumor cells and in situ cells, noteworthy research points include the identification of two distinct modes of tumor growth in bone metastases, the influence of type II pneumocyte on lung metastases, the paradoxical role of Kupffer cells in liver metastases, and the breakthrough of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) breach in brain metastases. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the characteristics of breast cancer metastases, shedding light on the pivotal roles of immune and resident cells in the development of distinct metastatic foci.

miR-603 promotes cell proliferation and differentiation by targeting TrkB in acute promyelocytic leukemia

Arsenic trioxide (ATO) treatment effectively prolongs the overall survival of patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). Mutations in the oncogene PML::RARA were found in patients with ATO-resistant and relapsed APL. However, some relapsed patients do not have such mutations. Here, we performed microarray analysis of samples from newly diagnosed and relapsed APL, and found different microRNA (miRNA) expression patterns between these two groups. Among the differentially expressed miRNAs, miR-603 was expressed at the lowest level in relapsed patients. The expression of miR-603 and its predicted target tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB) were determined by PCR and Western blot. Proliferation was measured using an MTT assay, while apoptosis, cell cycle and CD11b expression were analyzed using flow cytometry. In APL patients, the expression of miR-603 was negatively correlated with that of TrkB. miR-603 directly targeted TrkB and downregulated TrkB expression in the APL cell line NB4. miR-603 increased cell proliferation by promoting the differentiation and inhibiting the apoptosis of NB4 cells. This study shows that the miR-603/ TrkB axis may be a potent therapeutic target for relapsed APL.

Role of Transcription Factor BEND3 and Its Potential Effect on Cancer Progression

BEND3 is a transcription factor that plays a critical role in the regulation of gene expression in mammals. While there is limited research on the role of BEND3 as a tumor suppressor or an oncogene and its potential role in cancer therapy is still emerging, several studies suggest that it may be involved in both the processes. Its interaction and regulation with multiple other factors via p21 have already been reported to play a significant role in cancer development, which serves as an indication of its potential role in oncogenesis. Its interaction with chromatin modifiers such as NuRD and NoRC and its role in the recruitment of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) are some of the additional events indicative of its potential role in cancer development. Moreover, a few recent studies indicate BEND3 as a potential target for cancer therapy. Since the specific mechanisms by which BEND3 may contribute to cancer progression are not yet fully elucidated, in this review, we have discussed the possible pathways BEND3 may take to serve as an oncogenic driver or suppressor.

The Role of BDNF as a Biomarker in Cognitive and Sensory Neurodegeneration

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has a crucial function in the central nervous system and in sensory structures including olfactory and auditory systems. Many studies have highlighted the protective effects of BDNF in the brain, showing how it can promote neuronal growth and survival and modulate synaptic plasticity. On the other hand, conflicting data about BDNF expression and functions in the cochlear and in olfactory structures have been reported. Several clinical and experimental research studies showed alterations in BDNF levels in neurodegenerative diseases affecting the central and peripheral nervous system, suggesting that BDNF can be a promising biomarker in most neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, shearing loss, or olfactory impairment. Here, we summarize current research concerning BDNF functions in brain and in sensory domains (olfaction and hearing), focusing on the effects of the BDNF/TrkB signalling pathway activation in both physiological and pathological conditions. Finally, we review significant studies highlighting the possibility to target BDNF as a biomarker in early diagnosis of sensory and cognitive neurodegeneration, opening new opportunities to develop effective therapeutic strategies aimed to counteract neurodegeneration.

Anoikis in phenotypic reprogramming of the prostate tumor microenvironment

Prostate cancer is one of the most common malignancies in males wherein 1 in 8 men are diagnosed with this disease in their lifetime. The urgency to find novel therapeutic interventions is associated with high treatment resistance and mortality rates associated with castration-resistant prostate cancer. Anoikis is an apoptotic phenomenon for normal epithelial or endothelial cells that have lost their attachment to the extracellular matrix (ECM). Tumor cells that lose their connection to the ECM can die via apoptosis or survive via anoikis resistance and thus escaping to distant organs for metastatic progression. This review discusses the recent advances made in our understanding of the signaling effectors of anoikis in prostate cancer and the approaches to translate these mechanistic insights into therapeutic benefits for reducing lethal disease outcomes (by overcoming anoikis resistance). The prostate tumor microenvironment is a highly dynamic landscape wherein the balance between androgen signaling, cell lineage changes, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), extracellular matrix interactions, actin cytoskeleton remodeling as well as metabolic changes, confer anoikis resistance and metastatic spread. Thus, these mechanisms also offer unique molecular treatment signatures, exploitation of which can prime prostate tumors to anoikis induction with a high translational significance.

Nerve growth factor causes epinephrine release dysfunction by regulating phenotype alterations and the function of adrenal medullary chromaffin cells in mice with allergic rhinitis

The presence of allergic rhinitis (AR) is an increased risk factor for the occurrence of bronchial asthma (BA). Nerve growth factor (NGF), in addition to its key role in the development and differentiation of neurons, may also be an important inflammatory factor in AR and BA. However, the pathogenesis of the progression of AR to BA remains to be elucidated. The present study aimed to investigate the ability of NGF to mediate nasobronchial interactions and explore possible underlying molecular mechanisms. In the present study, an AR mouse model was established and histology of nasal mucosa tissue injury was determined. The level of phenylethanolamine N‑methyl transferase in adrenal medulla was determined by immunofluorescence. Primary adrenal medullary chromaffin cells (AMCCs) were isolated and cultured from the adrenal medulla of mice. The expression levels of synaptophysin (SYP), STAT1, JAK1, p38 and ERK in NGF‑treated and untreated AMCCs were detected by reverse‑transcription‑quantitative PCR and western blotting. The epinephrine (EPI) and norepinephrine (NE) concentrations were measured by ELISA. It was found that the expression of SYP in AMCCs was enhanced in the presence of NGF, whereas, the concentration of EPI decreased significantly under the same conditions. Furthermore, NGF mediated the phenotypic and functional changes of AMCCs, resulting in decreased EPI secretion via JAK1/STAT1, p38 and ERK signaling. In conclusion, these findings could provide novel evidence for the role of NGF in regulating neuroendocrine mechanisms.

The Function of BDNF and Its Receptor in the Male Genitourinary System and Its Potential Clinical Application

Background: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), as a member of the nerve growth factor family, has been mentioned more and more frequently in recent literature reports. Among them, content about the male genitourinary system is also increasing. Objective and Rationale: BDNF plays an important role in the male genitourinary system. At the same time, the literature in this field is constantly increasing. Therefore, we systematically summarized the literature in order to more intuitively show the function of BDNF and its receptor in the male genitourinary system and its potential clinical application. Search Methods: An electronic search of, e.g., PubMed, scholar.google and Scopus, for articles relating to BDNF and its receptor in the male genitourinary system. Outcomes: In the male genitourinary system, BDNF and its receptors TrkB and p75 participate in a series of normal physiological activities, such as the maturation and morphogenesis of testes and epididymis and maintenance of isolated sperm motility. Similarly, an imbalance of the circulating concentration of BDNF also mediates the pathophysiological process of many diseases, such as prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia, male infertility, diabetes erectile dysfunction, penile sclerosis, and bladder fibrosis. As a consequence, we conclude that BDNF and its receptor are key regulatory proteins in the male genitourinary system, which can be used as potential therapeutic targets and markers for disease diagnosis.

Tumor Microenvironment and Metabolism: Role of the Mitochondrial Melatonergic Pathway in Determining Intercellular Interactions in a New Dynamic Homeostasis

There is a growing interest in the role of alterations in mitochondrial metabolism in the pathoetiology and pathophysiology of cancers, including within the array of diverse cells that can form a given tumor microenvironment. The 'exhaustion' in natural killer cells and CD8+ t cells as well as the tolerogenic nature of dendritic cells in the tumor microenvironment seems determined by variations in mitochondrial function. Recent work has highlighted the important role played by the melatonergic pathway in optimizing mitochondrial function, limiting ROS production, endogenous antioxidants upregulation and consequent impacts of mitochondrial ROS on ROS-dependent microRNAs, thereby impacting on patterned gene expression. Within the tumor microenvironment, the tumor, in a quest for survival, seeks to 'dominate' the dynamic intercellular interactions by limiting the capacity of cells to optimally function, via the regulation of their mitochondrial melatonergic pathway. One aspect of this is the tumor's upregulation of kynurenine and the activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, which acts to metabolize melatonin and increase the N-acetylserotonin/melatonin ratio, with effluxed N-acetylserotonin acting as a brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mimic via its activation of the BDNF receptor, TrkB, thereby increasing the survival and proliferation of tumors and cancer stem-like cells. This article highlights how many of the known regulators of cells in the tumor microenvironment can be downstream of the mitochondrial melatonergic pathway regulation. Future research and treatment implications are indicated.