NEFM

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

NEFM (Neurofilament Medium) is a type of neurofilament protein that is crucial for the structural support and function of neurons. It is one of the three main types of neurofilament proteins, along with NEFL (Neurofilament Light) and NEFH (Neurofilament Heavy).

Structure[edit | edit source]

NEFM is a medium-sized neurofilament protein, typically around 95-105 kDa in size. It is composed of a central alpha-helical rod domain flanked by non-helical head and tail domains. The rod domain is responsible for the protein's ability to form filaments, while the head and tail domains are involved in interactions with other cellular components.

Function[edit | edit source]

NEFM plays a critical role in maintaining the structural integrity of neurons. It helps to form a supportive network within the axon, providing a scaffold for the transport of cellular components and contributing to the overall shape and size of the neuron. In addition, NEFM is involved in regulating the speed of axon transport, which is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Alterations in NEFM have been associated with a number of neurological disorders. For example, mutations in the NEFM gene have been linked to Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a hereditary neuropathy characterized by muscle weakness and sensory loss. Additionally, abnormal accumulation of NEFM has been observed in several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis).

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


‎ ‎


Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD