In this project, we examine the role of the neurotrophic system in various mental health conditions, as well as its impact during normal aging and Alzheimer’s Disease. Neurotrophic factors are crucial for the growth, survival, and maintenance of neurons, and their dysregulation has been linked to mental health disorders. By investigating these factors, we aim to uncover their contributions to the development and progression of conditions such as depression, anxiety, and neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, we explore how changes in the neurotrophic system affect mental health, neurodevelopment, and brain aging, aiming to identify potential therapeutic targets to improve mental health across the lifespan.
Specifically, we are focused on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) receptor, Tyrosine kinase B (TrkB), and its isoforms- the full-length TrkB.FL and the truncated TrkB.T1. AS BDNF’s binding to TrkB.FL is associated with neuroprotection and neurogenesis, vital for mood and cognition, BDNF’s binding to TrkB.T1 opposes to TrkB.FL and does not promote those BDNF-induced functions. Thus, we investigate TrkB isoforms alteration in aging, and conditions such as Alzheimer’s Disease and mood disorders.