In vitro evaluation of cationic liposomal delivery of BDNF expressing plasmid DNA in experimental model of Parkinson's disease

• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/2047/D20261856

With the advent of gene therapy it has now become possible to target specific genes which have been either upregulated or down regulated in neurodegenerative disorders. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) belongs to the family of neurotrophins and has shown significant activity in protecting dopaminergic neurons and even promoting growth and differentiation. It has shown to inhibit apoptosis mediated cell death and neurodegeneration induced by neurotoxins. Studies have indicated that BDNF is expressed by dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and ventral tegmental area. Low level of BDNF mRNA expression has been associated with depletion of dopaminergic neurons. Also BDNF has shown to improve cognition in patients with PD. The main delivery challenge is that BDNF does not cross the BBB easily, owing to its high molecular weight and low diffusion across the brain parenchyma. Thus effective strategies are required for the delivery of this molecule.