| 摘要 |
The present invention relates to a method of promoting the structural and functional integration of neurons grafted into the central nervous system of a mammal by administering a neurotrophic factor to the central nervous system of the mammal, thereby promoting the structural and functional integration of the grafted neurons. Preferably the neurotrophic factor is administered to the central nervous system during a time period in the ontogenic development of the grafted neurons when the neurons are optimally responsive to the neurotrophic factor. The neurotrophic factor may be selected from the group consisting of NGF, BDNF, NT-3, NT-4/5, and derivatives thereof. Alternatively, the neurotrophic factor may be selected from the group consisting of CNTF, GDNF, and derivatives thereof. At least two neurotrophic factors may also be administered, selected from the group consisting of CNTF, GDNF, NGF, BDNF, NT-3, NT-4/5, and derivatives thereof. Preferably the grafted neurons are dopaminergic neurons and are contained in fetal ventral mesencephalic tissue. Also preferably, the recipient mammal is a human and the graft is made to the striatum of the brain as a treatment for Parkinson's disease. |
