Ceramide is responsible for the failure of compensatory nerve sprouting in apolipoprotein E knock-out mice.

Apolipoprotein E (apoE) is a key transporter of the cholesterol and phospholipids required for membrane synthesis and nerve growth. We now report a virtual absence in apoE knock-out (KO) mice of normal nerve growth factor (NGF)-driven compensatory sprouting of undamaged cutaneous nociceptive nerves. In contrast, NGF-independent regeneration of crushed axons was unaffected.

Neotrofin, a novel purine that induces NGF-dependent nociceptive nerve sprouting but not hyperalgesia in adult rat skin.

We report peripheral actions in rats of Neotrofin, a purine derivative of therapeutic interest. Systemic injections mimicked NGF in eliciting sprouting of nociceptive nerves without affecting their regeneration. The sprouting was prevented by anti-NGF treatment, implicating endogenous NGF.

Effect of loxapine on peripheral dopamine-like and serotonin receptors in patients with schizophrenia.

Objective: To investigate the effect of loxapine on peripheral dopamine D2-like and serotonin receptor binding and on psychotic symptoms.

Patients: Patients (n = 24) meeting the diagnostic criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision, for schizophrenia were selected from an outpatient clinic (age range 18-70 yr).

Methods: Patients were given loxapine (dose determined by a physician) for a period of 12 weeks.