USE OF NEUROTROPHIC FACTORS FOR TREATING NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES AND CANCER

摘要

A method of increasing connexin 43(Cx43) protein expression in a cell, as well as increasing intercellular gap junction communication is described. The method comprises comprising providing to the cell, a neurotrophic factor e.g. ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) or a neuroprotective fragment thereof, alone, or in combination with a PKA activator. This method can be used to enhance intercellular communication, providing a novel therapeutic approach to treating neurodegenerative diseases and cancer, and enhancing the neuroprotective effects associated with CNTF and Cx43.