Neurotrophins and Peripheral Neuropathies

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Brain Pathol. 2006 Oct;16(4):311-319.

Neurotrophins and Peripheral Neuropathies.

Sahenk Z.

Professor of Neurology and Pediatrics, Director, Neuromuscular

Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus Children's Research

Institute, Neuromuscular Program, Columbus, Ohio.

Peripheral neuropathy is a common disorder seen in general neurology

and neuromuscular speciality clinics. Treatment options directed at

the underlying cause can only be offered in a handful of conditions,

such as those with possible autoimmune etiology. The remainder fall

into the idiopathic or genetic category with no known treatment.

This review surveys the evidence supporting the rationale for the

therapeutic use of neurotrophins and other neurotrophic factors in

these disorders in relationship to the underlying pathobiological

process. Previous clinical trials are assessed, and increasingly

better understood and appreciated therapeutic potential of

neurotrophins is emphasized.