Neurotrophic factors(NGF) are proteins released by target tissues that promote neurons' growth, development, and survival. Neurotrophic factors can play many roles in biological processes such as neuron growth, axon direction, and synaptic transmission. Bioactive molecules attach to receptors on the neurons' surface, which enable cells to differentiate and proliferate, inhibit related neurons from killing cells, and thus sustain neurons. This is a key neurotrophic factor involved in the nervous system. NGF mostly functions through the association of its receptors: TrkA (tyrosine kinase receptor A) and p75 nerve growth factor receptor. Its functions include:
- Stealing the life of the neurons: Maintaining the life of neurons during development and longevity through the blocking of programmable cell death.
- Regeneration of nerves: After trauma or injury, NGF can aid in repairing and replacing injured nerves.
- Controlling nerve function: NGF has a strong role in physiological functions like pain and immune function.
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Role of Neurotrophins
Neurotrophins regulate synaptic power and connectivity, as well as long-term potentiation and pruning. Neurotrophins keep cells alive and stop them dying. These proteins support healthy populations of neurons. This is necessary for learning, memory and environmental responsiveness. Among the neurotrophins' effects:
- Neuron survival
- Neuroprotection
- Neurogenesis
- Synaptic plasticity
Neurotrophin Family Members
These proteins help nerve cells survive, expand, divide, and function. Such effects tend to be separated into a couple of principal kinds. Voici some of the major neurotrophic factors and their subsets:
- Nerve Growth Factor (NGF)
- Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)
- Nerve Guidance Factor (NT-3)
Diseases Associated with Neurotrophic Factors
Neurotrophic factors control nervous system development and operate only with BDNF and NGF, a family of proteins comprised primarily of BDNF. More neurotrophic factors likely post-infection:
Decreased BDNF is related to brain decline and, presumably, to the persistence of neurons and synaptic plasticity.
Depression is low in BDNF, it's been weighed in the same way as the other findings, and neurotrophic imbalances have correlation with mood and neuroplasticity.
So maybe, without neurotrophic elements, it is just so much easier for the dopamine neurons to perish and the disease to brew.
Neurotrophic factors rebalance and regenerate peripheral nerves and deficiency of neurotrophic factors damages peripheral nerves.
Neurotrophins, messenger molecules responsible for nerve protection, repair, and regeneration, may also help, at least in part by protecting nerves from secondary myelin damage.
- Neurodegenerative Diseases
Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, whatever neurodegenerative pathology – it could simply be that the neurotrophic factor has been depleted, the neurons are dead and they no longer work.
Neurotrophic Factors and Disease Treatment
The protein class most relevant for the care and repair of the nervous system is neurotrophins. Neurotrophins enable nerve cells to survive, grow, and function effectively. They play a crucial role in the morphology, differentiation, and synapse formation of neurons. Targeting neurotrophins could lead to significant changes in function for many neurological diseases, making them one of the best-understood targets for therapeutic intervention. Neurotrophins are central to understanding neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and they should be prioritized as a key target for future research and treatment.
Fig. 1 Typical NGF may have an impact on cancer pain (Griffin, N.; et al. 2018).
Conclusion
One of the protein families most integral to the functioning and health of the nervous system is neurotrophins. Neurotrophins promote the survival, proliferation, and proper functioning of nerve cells. They play a crucial role in cell growth, differentiation, and development. Neurotrophins are key targets in neurological diseases, as their levels and functions can be modulated, making them one of the most frequently pursued therapeutic targets. Research on neurotrophins is central to understanding neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, positioning them as ideal candidates for innovative therapies.
References
- Griffin, N.; et al. Targeting neurotrophin signaling in cancer: The renaissance. Pharmacological research. 2018, 135: 12-17.
- Rejdak, K.; et al. Modulation of neurotrophic factors in the treatment of dementia, stroke and TBI: Effects of Cerebrolysin. Medicinal Research Reviews. 2023, 43(5): 1668-1700.
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