The Low Molecular Weight Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor Mimetics With Antidepressant-Like Activity.

The Low Molecular Weight Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor Mimetics With Antidepressant-Like Activity. Curr Pharm Des. 2019 Mar 29;: Authors: Gudasheva TA, Povarnina P, Tarasiuk AV, Seredenin SB Abstract The search for new highly-effective, fast-acting antidepressant drugs is extremely relevant. Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and signaling through its tropomyosin-related tyrosine kinase B (TrkB) receptor, represents one of the most promising therapeutic targets for treating depression. BDNF is a key regulator of neuroplasticity in the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex, the dysfunction of which is considered to be the main pathophysiological hallmark of this disorder. BDNF itself has no favorable drug-like properties due to poor pharmacokinetics and possible adverse effects. The design of small, proteolytically stable BDNF mimetics might provide a useful approach for the development of therapeutic agents. There are two small molecule BDNF mimetics with antidepressant-like activity reported - 7, 8-dihydroxyflavone and the dimeric dipeptide mimetic of BDNF loop 4, GSB-106. The article reflects on current literature on the role of BDNF as a promising therapeutic target in the treatment of depression and on the current advances in development of small molecules on the base of this neurotrophin as potential antidepressants. PMID: 30931847 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Current Pharmaceutical Design - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Authors: Tags: Curr Pharm Des Source Type: research