The neurotrophic activities of brain-derived neurotrophic factor are potentiated by binding with apigenin, a common flavone in vegetables, in stimulating the receptor signaling

Aims: We aimed to identify the neurotrophic activities of apigenin (4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone) via its coordination with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BNDF) and an elevated signaling of tyrosine kinase receptor B (Trk B receptor).

Methods: The direct binding of apigenin to BDNF was validated by ultrafiltration and biacore assay. Neurogenesis, triggered by apigenin and/or BDNF, was determined in cultured SH-SY5Y cells and rat cortical neurons. The amyloid-beta (Aβ)_25-35 -induced cellular stress was revealed by propidium iodide staining, mitochondrial membrane potential, bioenergetic analysis, and formation of Reactive Oxygen Species levels. Activation of Trk B signaling was tested by western blotting.

Results: Apigenin and BDNF synergistically maintained the cell viability and promoted neurite outgrowth of cultured neurons. In addition, the BDNF-induced neurogenesis of cultured neurons was markedly potentiated by applied apigenin, including the induced expressions of neurofilaments, PSD-95 and synaptotagmin. Moreover, the synergy of apigenin and BDNF alleviated the (Aβ)_25-35 -induced cytotoxicity and mitochondrial dysfunction. The synergy could be accounted by phosphorylation of Trk B receptor, and which was fully blocked by a Trk Inhibitor K252a.

Conclusion: Apigenin potentiates the neurotrophic activities of BDNF through direct binding, which may serve as a possible treatment for its curative efficiency in neurodegenerative diseases and depression.