TrkB
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) binds to the TrkB receptor. We make less less BDNF when we do not eat. Giving BDNF to mice causes them to eat less and lose weight. In mice, BDNF was also found to play a role in memory and several other behaviors. Another brain chemical, neurotrophin NT4/5, also binds this receptor. A case report of a severely obese child with short-term memory impairment and developmental delay showed that this child had a mutation in the gene for the receptor. Return to Genetics or the
Home Page.
It is important you
discuss any weight loss or exercise plan with your doctor. Only you and
your physician can decide what is best for you. Some people have
certain conditions that prevent them from doing all exercises, and goal
body weights may be different for different people. You need to discuss
all these things with your physician before starting any weight loss or
exercise program. This article was written by John Vickery, MD. References Fauci et al., Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine 17th ed., ch 74 Endocrine Reviews 27(7):710-718 Endocrinol Metab Clin N Am 2008;37:733-751
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