Neurotrophin

Neurotrophin

Neurotrophins are a family of proteins that induce the survival, development, and function of neurons. They belong to a class of growth factors, secreted proteins that can signal particular cells to survive, differentiate, or grow. Growth factors such as neurotrophins that promote the survival of neurons are known as neurotrophic factors.

History

The concept of a neurotrophic factor was first introduced by Rita Levi-Montalcini in the 1950s to explain the observation that the removal of limb buds from chick embryos resulted in the death of spinal motor neurons. The discovery of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), the first neurotrophin, by Levi-Montalcini and Stanley Cohen in the 1950s, led to the discovery of further neurotrophic factors, including Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), Neurotrophin-3 (NT-3), and Neurotrophin-4 (NT-4).

Function

Neurotrophins are chemicals that help to stimulate and control neurogenesis, the process of generating new neurons. They are best known for their roles in the survival and differentiation of mature neurons. However, they also influence the growth and differentiation of new neurons and synapses.

Types of Neurotrophins

There are four types of neurotrophins found in mammals:

• Nerve Growth Factor (NGF)
• Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)
• Neurotrophin-3 (NT-3)
• Neurotrophin-4 (NT-4)

Each of these neurotrophins has unique properties and functions, but all play crucial roles in neural survival, development, function, and plasticity.

Clinical Significance

Neurotrophins have been implicated in a variety of neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). They have also been implicated in psychiatric disorders, such as depression and schizophrenia. Understanding the role of neurotrophins in these conditions could lead to new therapeutic strategies.

See Also

• Nerve Growth Factor
• Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor
• Neurotrophin-3
• Neurotrophin-4
• Neurogenesis
• Neurological disorders