Increased hepatocyte growth factor level in cerebrospinal fluid in Alzheimer's disease

Background & Objective - Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), also known as the scatter factor, is a potent mitogen for mature hepatocytes, and also has multifunctional effects on some cells in various organs. Recently, we have found expression and localization of HGF in white matter astrocytes in human brain tissues. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry using anti-HGF antibody revealed more intense immunolabeling in Alzheimer's disease (AD) than control brains. The aim of the study is to investigate the level of HGF in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from patients with AD. Material and methods - We examined the level of HGF in CSF from 34 AD and 15 age-matched disease control patients by highly sensitive enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay (ELISA) system. Results - Consistent with the immunohistochemical data, a significantly higher concentration of HGF in AD CSF was found as compared with controls. A significant correlation was also seen between CSF HGF levels and white matter high-signal foci determined on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in AD patients. Conclusion - These results indicate that CSF HGF levels correspond with the white matter damage in AD brain.