Quantification of neurotrophin mRNA expression in PMN mouse: Modulation by xaliproden

Abstract

Compounds possessing neurotrophic properties may represent a possible treatment for neurodegenerative disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Xaliproden (SR57746A), an orally-active non-peptide compound, which has been found to exhibit neurotrophic effects in vitro and in vivo, increase the lifespan and delay the progression of motor neuron degeneration in PMN mice. We have used a quantitative reverse transcription/polymerase chain reaction amplification technique to study the regulation of neurotrophin mRNA and trk mRNA expression in PMN mice. NGF and NT-3 mRNA are downregulated in PMN mice. These deficiencies can be overcome by treatment with xaliproden. Such an effect could contribute to neurotrophic effects of xaliproden in vivo and in vitro.