Clinically relevant concentrations of valproic acid modulate melatonin MT(1) receptor, HDAC and MeCP2 mRNA expression in C6 glioma cells.

C6 glioma cells were treated with clinically relevant concentrations of valproic acid (0.5 or 1.0 mM) for 1-7 days and RT-PCR used to examine expression of the melatonin MT(1) receptor and selected epigenetic modulators.

Novel targets for valproic acid: up-regulation of melatonin receptors and neurotrophic factors in C6 glioma cells.

Valproic acid (VPA) is a potent anti-epileptic and effective mood stabilizer. It is known that VPA enhances central GABAergic activity and activates the mitogen-activated protein kinase-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MAPK-ERK) pathway. It can also inhibit various isoforms of the enzyme, histone deacetylase (HDAC), which is associated with modulation of gene transcription.

Neural stem cells express melatonin receptors and neurotrophic factors: colocalization of the MT1 receptor with neuronal and glial markers.

Background: In order to optimize the potential benefits of neural stem cell (NSC) transplantation for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, it is necessary to understand their biological characteristics. Although neurotrophin transduction strategies are promising, alternative approaches such as the modulation of intrinsic neurotrophin expression by NSCs, could also be beneficial. Therefore, utilizing the C17.