Nerve growth factor

Nerve growth factor (NGF), the prototypical growth factor, is a secreted target derived protein. NGF is critical for the survival and maintenance of sympathetic and sensory neurons. NGF is released from the target cells, binds to and activates its high affinity receptor (TrkA), and is internalized into the responsive neuron. The NGF/TrkA complex is subsequently trafficked back to the cell body. This movement of NGF from axon tip to soma is thought to be involved in the long-distance signaling of neurons.

Related Topics:
Growth factor - Protein - Sensory - Neuron - Target cell - TrkA - Cell body - Axon

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Researchers at the University of Florida at Gainesville have discovered that wounds bathed in NGF healed twice as fast as untreated and unlicked wounds. NGF is found in the saliva of mice. NGF has not been found in human saliva.

Related Topics:
University of Florida - Gainesville - Saliva - Mice

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~