Projects / Programmes
Farmakologija - molekularna (Slovene)
January 1, 1999
- December 31, 2003
Code |
Science |
Field |
Subfield |
3.03.00 |
Medical sciences |
Neurobiology |
|
Code |
Science |
Field |
B740 |
Biomedical sciences |
Pharmacological sciences, pharmacognosy, pharmacy, toxicology |
Researchers (13)
Organisations (1)
Abstract
The research program deals with the molecular mechanisms involved in the synthesis, secretion and regulation of neurotrophic factors (NTF´s) in the neuronal and nonneuronal cells of CNS. In the peripheral system nerve growth factor (NGF), cytokins and some drugs, were used to elucidate their regulatory effect on histamine and 5-HT release from mast cells. Molecular characteristics of histamine and cytokine receptors involved in the CNS and PS were studied by radioligand binding technique.
1. Our specific interest involves pharmacological modulation of synthesis and secretion of NGF from neuronal and nonneuronal cells:
Nerve growth factor is a trophic factor, which promotes development of sensory and sympathetic neurons, neuronal survival, induction of neurite outgrowth and synthesis of transmitter enzymes. Our recent studies showed that NGF synthesis and release could be modulated by several cytokins (IL-1beta, IL-6), neurotransmitters (histamine etc.) and other signaling molecules. They act through different molecular mechanisms, including activation of various receptors (IL-1, ?-adrenergic or histamine receptor) and various intracellular pathways.
2. Influence of cytokins, neurotrophic factors and drugs on histamine and serotonine release from rat peritoneal mast cells.
NGF, GM-CSF, SCF, IL-3, IL-5 and some psychotropic substances (perazine, clozapine etc.) were shown to modulate histamine and 5-HT release from mast cells.
3. Histamine H1-¸ H2- and H3-receptors in the cardiovascular system and CNS.
Our current studies include identification, characterization and comparison of molecular characteristics of central (nonneuronal cells) and peripheral (vascular tissue) histamine receptor subtypes. Newly synthesized histaminergic drugs (agonists) from the group of phenylhistamines and histaprodifens are studied on the above system to clarify their agonistic activity (in collaboration with the research group of dr. W. Schunack, Free University Berlin)
Most important scientific results
Final report
Most important socioeconomically and culturally relevant results
Final report