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  4. Current knowledge and challenges associated with targeted delivery of neurotrophic factors into the central nervous system: focus on available approaches

Current knowledge and challenges associated with targeted delivery of neurotrophic factors into the central nervous system: focus on available approaches

Cell Biosci, 2021 · DOI: 10.1186/s13578-021-00694-2 · Published: January 1, 2021

PharmacologyRegenerative MedicineNeurology

Simple Explanation

The review discusses recent advances in delivering neurotrophic factors (NTFs) to the central nervous system (CNS). It highlights the advantages and disadvantages of different delivery methods, including stem cells, viral vectors, and biomaterials. NTFs are important for the survival and function of neurons. Effective delivery of NTFs to the CNS can potentially treat neurodegenerative diseases. The review focuses on challenges associated with each delivery method, including immune response, tumor formation, and the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.

Study Duration
Not specified
Participants
Animal models (rats, mice)
Evidence Level
Review

Key Findings

  • 1
    Stem cells, viral vectors, and biomaterials have shown promise in delivering NTFs to the CNS.
  • 2
    Each delivery method has its own advantages and disadvantages, including concerns about immune response, tumor formation, and the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.
  • 3
    Combining different delivery methods, such as natural and synthetic biomaterials, may be more effective than using them alone.

Research Summary

This review summarizes current knowledge and challenges in targeted delivery of neurotrophic factors (NTFs) into the central nervous system (CNS), focusing on available approaches like stem cells, viral vectors, and biomaterials. Each delivery system presents benefits and limitations regarding cytotoxicity, immune response, transgene size, and the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Future studies should focus on improving stem cell-based vectors, optimizing viral vectors, and developing more efficient NTF-loaded biomaterial delivery systems for clinical applications.

Practical Implications

Clinical Translation

Optimizing NTF delivery methods could lead to more effective treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.

Drug Development

Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of different delivery systems can guide the development of novel NTF-based therapies.

Research Directions

Further research is needed to address the challenges associated with each delivery method, such as immune response and tumor formation.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Immune response to delivery vectors
  • 2
    Tumor formation risk with certain delivery methods
  • 3
    Challenges in crossing the blood-brain barrier

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