Current status and future directions for a neurotoxicity hazard assessment framework that integrates approaches.

Neurotoxicology is the study of adverse effects on the structure or function of the developing or mature adult nervous system following exposure to chemical, biological, or physical agents. The development of more informative alternative methods to assess developmental (DNT) and adult (NT) neurotoxicity induced by xenobiotics is critically needed. The use of such alternative methods including approaches that predict DNT or NT from chemical structure (e.

Endogenous cannabinoids mediate the effect of BDNF at CA1 inhibitory synapses in the hippocampus.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), traditionally known for promoting neuronal growth and development, is also a modulator of synaptic transmission. In addition to the well-characterized effects at excitatory synapses, BDNF has been shown to acutely suppress inhibitory neurotransmission; however, the underlying mechanisms are unclear. We have previously shown that at inhibitory synapses in layer 2/3 of the somatosensory cortex, BDNF induces the mobilization of endogenous cannabinoids (eCBs) that act retrogradely to suppress GABA release.

BDNF-induced endocannabinoid release modulates neocortical glutamatergic neurotransmission.

Endocannabinoids (eCBs) and neurotrophins, particularly brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), are potent neuromodulators found throughout the mammalian neocortex. Both eCBs and BDNF play critical roles in many behavioral and neurophysiological processes and are targets for the development of novel therapeutics. The effects of eCBs and BDNF are primarily mediated by the type 1 cannabinoid (CB1) receptor and the trkB tyrosine kinase receptor, respectively.

Distribution of the vasotocin type 4 receptor throughout the brain of the chicken, Gallus gallus.

The vasopressin 1a receptor (V1aR) has been shown to have a wide distribution throughout the mammalian brain and pituitary gland and mediates a number of physiological functions as well as social behavior following the binding of its agonist, vasopressin. The avian receptor homologous to the V1aR is the vasotocin 4 receptor (VT4R). Its mRNA distribution has been documented in brain regions of two species of songbird; however, its complete protein distribution in the brain has not been published to date for any avian species.