Uncovering the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)/TrkB signaling in head and neck malignancies

Abstract

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a member of the neurotrophin family of growth factors that was first known as responsible for sustain the growth, function and plasticity of neural cells. BDNF exerts its effects by binding to the tyrosine kinase receptor B (TrkB). The BDNF/TrkB axis has been reported to be overexpressed in several neurogenic and non-neurogenic tumors. Its higher expression was associated with a poor prognosis to patients affected by different human malignancies, tumor growth, invasion and metastasis; epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and resistance to chemotherapy. BDNF/TrkB represent promising targets to the development of novel anticancer therapies. Some clinical trials are currently evaluating the efficacy of Trk proteins-target drugs in different types of solid tumors. To date, few groups have evaluated the BDNF/TrkB pathway in head and neck malignancies. The aims of the present study were to review the literature concerning the role of BDNF/TrkB activation in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and malignant salivary gland tumors, and to discuss future perspectives of BDNF/TrkB-target therapy.

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