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Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) support the
viability and function of many types of neurons, and are likely mediators of activity-dependent
changes in the CNS. We examined BDNF and NGF mRNA levels in several brain areas of
adult male rats following 0, 2, 4, or 7 nights with ad libitum access to running wheels.
BDNF mRNA was significantly increased in several brain areas, most notably in the
hippocampus and caudal 1/3 of cerebral cortex following 2, 4, and 7 nights with exercise.
Significant elevations in BDNF mRNA were localized in Ammon's horn areas 1 (CA1) and
4 (CA4) of the hippocampus, and layers II-III of the caudal neocortex and retrosplenial
cortex. NGF mRNA was also significantly elevated in the hippocampus and caudal 1/3
of the cortex, affecting primarily the dentate gyrus granular layer (DG) and CA4 of
the hippocampus and layers II-III in caudal neocortex.