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The Role Of Bdnf-Mediated Neuroplasticity In Cardiovascular Regulation Within The Hypothalamus And Brainstem, Daniella Johanna Thorsdottir
The Role Of Bdnf-Mediated Neuroplasticity In Cardiovascular Regulation Within The Hypothalamus And Brainstem, Daniella Johanna Thorsdottir
Graduate College Dissertations and Theses
The paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) is an important cardiovascular and autonomic regulatory center. Activation of PVN neurons projecting to the brainstem and spinal cord elevates sympathetic activity and blood pressure. Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a key role in stress-induced cardiovascular responses within the PVN and is also known to be upregulated in the PVN in response to stress and hyperosmolality. PVN overexpression or acute injection of BDNF also elevates blood pressure chronically. However, the mechanism behind BDNF-mediated cardiovascular regulation is not fully understood. BDNF is known to modulate excitatory/inhibitory signaling by altering the expression and membrane …