Neuroplasticity Markers [Neurosurgery Wiki]

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====== Neuroplasticity Markers ======

**Neuroplasticity** is the ability of the nervous system to adapt, reorganize, and regenerate.  
**Neuroplasticity markers** are molecules indicating or mediating these changes.

===== 1. Key Neuroplasticity Markers =====

^ Marker ^ Function ^ Notes ^
| **BDNF** | Promotes neuronal survival, synaptic growth, plasticity | Upregulated by exercise, neurostimulation |
| **GAP-43** | Axonal growth and regeneration | High after nerve injury |
| **Synaptophysin** | Synaptic vesicle protein; synapse density marker | Synaptogenesis and remodeling |
| **MAP2** | Maintains dendritic structure | Dendritic remodeling indicator |
| **PSA-NCAM** | Promotes cell migration and plasticity | Regenerative processes |
| **Nogo-A** | Inhibits axonal growth | Target for enhancing regeneration |
| **c-Fos** | Immediate early gene for neuronal activity | Plastic change marker |
| **CREB** | Regulates plasticity-related gene expression | Crucial for memory and long-term plasticity |

===== 2. Neuroplasticity in Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) =====
- Positive markers (BDNF, GAP-43) increase during regenerative attempts.
- Negative regulators (Nogo-A) inhibit axonal regrowth.
- Therapies target enhancing positive markers and inhibiting negative regulators.

===== Summary =====
**Neuroplasticity markers** help track recovery, assess therapeutic interventions, and reveal mechanisms of nervous system adaptation.