Neurotrophic factors decrease the release of creatine kinase and prostaglandin E2 from metabolically stressed muscle.

We have used an in vitro model of oxidative stress by exposing rat muscle to 2:4 dinitrophenol. This causes an efflux of creatine kinase (CK) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) commonly used as indicators of muscle cell damage. We then investigated compounds with a putative cell protective effect in the system. Ciliary neurotrophic factor, brain derived neurotrophic factor and insulin like growth factor 1 all prevent the release of PGE2 and CK. To the extent that these indicators may reflect cell damage, the results might support the investigation of the therapeutic potential of these compounds in muscle disease.