PubMed · 11096439
Enhanced learning in mice parallels vector-mediated nerve growth factor expression in hippocampus.
Abstract
Spatial learning requires the integrity of the nerve growth factor (NGF)-responsive septohippocampal pathway. Loss of a single NGF allele at the mouse NGF locus (heterozygous null, ngf(+/-)) reduces septohippocampal NGF levels and NGF-regulated cholinergic neurotransmitter enzymes and results in spatial learning deficits in adult animals. A herpes simplex virus (HSV) amplicon vector was utilized to locally deliver NGF to the hippocampus of mice heterozygous and wild type (ngf(+/+)) at the NGF gene locus. NGF gene transfer produced transient increases in NGF protein levels and choline acetyltransferase activity in both ngf(+/-) and ngf(+/+) mice. However, spatial learning capability was improved only in ngf(+/-) mice. In aggregate, these findings suggest that amplicon-directed expression of NGF in subjects with baseline septohippocampal dysfunction can correct spatial learning deficits.
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A I Brooks, D A Cory-Slechta, W J Bowers, S L Murg, H J Federoff. 2000-11-20. Enhanced learning in mice parallels vector-mediated nerve growth factor expression in hippocampus.. https://doi.org/10.1089/104303400750038453
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