Decreased motoneuron survival in Igf2 null mice after sciatic nerve transection

The search for therapeutic targets to prevent neurons from dying is ongoing and involves the exploration of a long list of neurotrophic factors. Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) is a member of the insulin family with known neurotrophic properties. In this study, we used Igf2 knockout (Igf2(-/-)) neonate mice to determine whether lgf2 deficiency is detrimental to motor neuron survival after axonal injury. Results show that Igf2(-/-) neonatal mice are more susceptible to motor neuron damage than Igf2(+/+) mice, as they have a significantly lower percentage of motor neuron survival after a sciatic nerve transection. Neuronal survival was significantly improved in Igf2(-/-) mice when IGF2 was administered. These results support the role of IGF2 in neonatal motor neuron survival. NeuroReport 20:1414-1418 (C) 2009 Wolters Kluwer Health vertical bar Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.