NPTX2

NPTX2 or Neuronal Pentraxin 2 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the NPTX2 gene. It is a member of the neuronal pentraxin protein family and plays a crucial role in the human nervous system.

Function

NPTX2 is a neuronal activity-regulated gene, which is part of the neuronal pentraxin (NP) gene family. These genes are involved in neuronal activity and synaptic plasticity, which are essential for learning and memory functions. NPTX2 is primarily expressed in the brain, particularly in the hippocampus, a region of the brain involved in memory formation.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the expression of this gene have been associated with neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia. In Alzheimer's disease, decreased levels of NPTX2 have been observed in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients, suggesting a potential role of NPTX2 in the pathogenesis of the disease. In schizophrenia, alterations in the expression of NPTX2 have been linked to cognitive deficits observed in patients.

Research

Research on NPTX2 has focused on its role in synaptic plasticity and its potential as a biomarker for neurological disorders. Studies have shown that NPTX2 can regulate the strength of connections between neurons and influence the formation of neural circuits, which are critical for cognitive functions.

See also

• Neuronal pentraxin receptor
• Neuronal pentraxin 1
• Neuronal activity
• Synaptic plasticity
• Alzheimer's disease
• Schizophrenia

External links

• NPTX2 at the National Center for Biotechnology Information