[From research of BDNF in traumatic brain and spinal cord injury to translational medicine].
Brain and spinal cord injury (BSI), a common neurological disease, is increasing. The functional recovery of BSI is far from satisfactory despite great improvement in clinical treatment of BSI. Research into injury of neurons and neurite as well as the microenvironment that regulate BSI conditions should be able to enable us to find a pivotal position among the complex molecular system for effective clinic practice. Further effort needs to pay attention to translational research. In this paper, we propose a crucial molecule, known as brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), for translational research in relation to BSI because of its significant role in BSI and its changes with various interventions such as acupuncture, hormone, herb and cell agents. Moreover, the establishment of BDNF transgenic release would provide a practical approach for treating BSI with BDNF. It is important that research questions derive from bedsides (what do doctors and patients need?). Answers identified by laboratory research should be put into practice (back to bedsides). This consists of B-to-B double circles. As a key concept of translational medicine, it will guide our direction towards optimal development of medical research and medical practice.
State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Translational Neuroscience Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
Ting-Hua
TH
Wang
Jin
J
Liu
D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000628:therapy; D019208:Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor / Q000378:metabolism*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000628:therapy; D057170:Translational Research, Biomedical
D019208:Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor