Brain-derived neurotrophic factor prevents axotomized retinal ganglion cell death through MAPK and PI3K signaling pathways.

BDNF-mediated signaling involves activation of both MAPK and Akt on the axotomized adult rat retina, and the collaboration of both MAPK and PI3K-Akt pathways seems to be necessary in neuroprotective signaling in axotomized RGCs.