The role of Neurotrophin 3 (NT-3) on neural plasticity in depression: a literature review

Background: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a pervasive global health concern characterized by complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors, resulting in structural and functional alterations within the brain. This abstract explores the involvement of neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) in MDD, shedding light on its potential as a therapeutic target. Neuroanatomical evidence implicates brain regions like the amygdala, hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and ventral striatum in MDD pathology, with aberrant synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis playing a crucial role.

Methods: We conducted a review using a systematic search of MEDLINE. The results of the studies that match the search criteria are then analyzed using a narrative synthesis to include in the literature review.

Results: There are four known brain regions and neurocircuits that are involved in depression, which are amygdala, hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and ventral striatum. NT-3, a member of the neurotrophin family, has emerged as a critical modulator of depressive processes, whereas NT-3 influences monoamine neurotransmitters, serotonin, and noradrenaline while also regulating synaptic plasticity, neurogenesis, brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling, and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.

Conclusion: NT-3 emerges as a promising therapeutic target for MDD, with multifaceted effects on neurotransmitters, synaptic plasticity, neurogenesis, and the HPA axis. However, further preclinical and clinical studies are needed to comprehensively evaluate its potential in managing mood disorders.