Figure 2.
Cellular stress leads to the release of neurotrophic factors like NGF and BDNF, and axon guidance molecules like Netrin-1. These factors stimulate axonogenesis and modulate neuron excitability and neurotransmitter release. Additionally, tumor cells can deliver axon guidance molecules via extracellular vesicles to stimulate axon growth. The diagram shows sensory or sympathetic nerves interacting with these factors through receptors TrkA, TrkB, and DCC, leading to increased axonogenesis, neuronal excitability, and neurotransmitter release.
Tumors shape their innervation. Tumor cells and stromal cells release neurotrophic factors (nerve growth factor, NGF, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor, BDNF) and axon guidance molecules (netrin-1), which stimulate axonogenesis and modulate neuron excitability and neurotransmitter release. Neurotrophin release may be enhanced by cellular stress induced by treatment or nutrient deprivation. In addition, tumor cells can deliver axon guidance molecules and stimulate axon growth by exosome delivery. DCC, Deleted in colorectal cancer, Trk, Tropomyosin receptor kinase.