Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) counteracts hypoxic damage to hippocampal neural network function in vitro

This study revealed that GDNF does not influence spontaneous network activity during normoxia but protects cultures from cell death and maintains the network activity during hypoxia. GDNF created unique conditions that supported the viability of cells even in cases of cellular mitochondrial damage. GDNF partially negated the consequences of hypoxia by influencing synaptic plasticity. Intravital mRNA detection identified fewer GluR2 mRNA-positive cells, whereas GDNF preserved the number of these cells in the post-hypoxic period. Activation of the synthesis of GluR2 subunits of AMPA-receptors is one possible mechanism of the neuroprotective action of GDNF.