Studies in animal models and humans suggesting a role of nerve growth factor in schizophrenia-like disorders

Neurotrophic factors, such as nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived n eurotrophic factor (BDNF), are known to play a crucial role in growth, diff erentiation and function in a variety of brain neurons during development a nd in adult life. We have recently shown that environmental changes, aggres sive behavior and anxiety-like responses alter both circulating and brain b asal NGF levels. In the present review, we present data obtained using anim al models which suggest that neurotrophic factors, particularly NGF and BDN F, might be implicated in mechanism(s) leading to a condition associated wi th schizophrenic-like behaviors. The hypothesis that neurotrophins of the N GF family can be implicated in some maldevelopmental aspects of schizophren ia is supported by findings indicating that the constitutive levels of NGF and BDNF are affected in schizophrenic patients. (C) 2000 Lippincott Willia ms & Wilkins.