Does brain-derived neurotrophic factor receptor TrkB exist as a preformed dimer in living cells?
Most, if not all, of the TrkB receptor has a preformed, yet inactive, homodimeric structure before BDNF binding. The intracellular domain of TrkB plays a crucial role in the spontaneous dimerization of the newly synthesized receptors, which occurs in ER. These findings provide new insight into an understanding of a molecular mechanism underlying transmembrane signaling mediated by NT receptors.
Our data indicate that protective effect of porcine placenta extract in contact hypersensitivity is mediated by inhibition of the inflammatory responses and IgE production, suggesting a potential therapeutic application of porcine placenta extract to modulate skin inflammation.