Краткое описание

Insulin-like growth factors (IGF) play an important role in the development and growth of the central nervous system (CNS). Gene expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and IGF-1 receptor are represented in almost all parts of the brain, being largely concentrated in the cerebral vessels. IGF-1 is involved in neuro-, angiogenesis, stimulation of cell proliferation and reparation in response to damage to both the central and peripheral nervous system. IGF-1 exerts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and protective effects on the CNS. The review discusses the importance and the role of IGF-1 in vascular diseases of the brain, including aneurysms, ischemic stroke, aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, as well as neuroprotection. Vascular pathology of the brain is among the most serious medico-social problems due to its significant share in the structure of morbidity, disability and mortality. Since cerebrovascular diseases are among the main causes of mortality, clarifying the mechanisms of cerebrovascular pathology is important for the development of effective treatments and new therapeutic approaches.