VGF

VGF (non-acronymic) is a neuropeptide encoded by the VGF gene in humans. It was first discovered in 1985 and has since been found to play crucial roles in energy homeostasis, metabolism, and psychiatric disorders.

History

The VGF gene was first identified in 1985 in a study of nerve growth factor (NGF)-responsive PC12 cells. The name VGF is derived from the initials of the two viruses used in the study, the vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) and the Gibbon ape leukemia virus (GaLV). Despite its name, VGF is not an acronym and does not stand for anything.

Structure

The VGF gene is located on chromosome 7 and consists of six exons. It encodes a 615-amino acid protein that is processed into smaller peptides by prohormone convertases. These peptides include TLQP, AQEE, NERP, and LQEQ, each of which has distinct biological functions.

Function

VGF and its peptides are secreted by neurons and neuroendocrine cells and have been implicated in a variety of physiological processes. These include regulation of energy homeostasis, metabolism, and synaptic plasticity. VGF is also involved in the response to stress and has been linked to psychiatric disorders such as depression and schizophrenia.

Clinical significance

Alterations in VGF expression and function have been associated with a range of disorders. These include neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes, and psychiatric disorders such as depression and schizophrenia. As such, VGF and its peptides are being investigated as potential therapeutic targets for these conditions.

See also

• Neuropeptide
• Gene
• Chromosome 7
• Exon
• Prohormone convertase
• Depression
• Schizophrenia
• Alzheimer's disease
• Parkinson's disease
• Obesity
• Diabetes