Trophic Factor Signaling and Motor Neuron Death

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DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This proposal focuses on the role of receptor tyrosine kinases in rendering motor neurons susceptible to neurodegenerative insults. TrkB is activated by its ligand, brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Several independent laboratories show that blocking TrkB activation in vitro can protect neurons from specific insults. Despite the heresy of these observations, we have seen the same phenomenon in vitro and in a specific in vivo circumstance. In specific aim #1 we will investigate the temporal aspect of this process by putting the mutant SOD mouse on a TrkBF616A background. TrkBF616A can be specifically antagonized by the orally active, blood brain barrier permeable agent, 1NMPP1. A second receptor tyrosine kinase of interest is the Insulin/Insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF-R). In model organisms (and recently in mice) a conserved stress resistance pathway is evoked when the activity of the IGF-R is reduced. The FOXO3a transcription factor plays a key role in this process in worms and flies, but its function in vertebrates is unknown. In specific aim #2, we will determine if loss of FOXO3a ameliorates or exacerbates the mutant SOD mouse motor neuron disease. In the course of our investigations of FOXO3a, we found a marine sponge compound (Psammaplysene A, PA) that promotes nuclear localization of the transcription factor and is broadly neuroprotective in in vitro and in vivo models of neurodegeneration. While the evidence is strong that the compound works through FOXO3a, the precise molecular target is not known. In specific aim #3, several approaches will be employed to find the target and pathway through which PA acts. Overall this work attempts to find new disease modifiers that slow the progression of motor neuron disease. If successful, new therapeutic targets will emerge.