Nerve Growth Factor
Summary:
Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) is a naturally occurring protein
that controls the development of the nervous system in embryos and maintains
neurons and neural transmission in adults, particularly in sympathetic and
sensory nerve cells.
NGF was the first neurotrophin to be identified. It is believed to play a
significant role in the repair, regeneration and protection of neurons. By
activating certain signaling pathways, NGF stimulates a sequence of proteins
and achieves a nourishing effect on cholinergic neurons of the basal
forebrain and striatum. This can promote nerve growth and potentially
reverse the devastating effects of neurodegenerative disorders such as
Alzheimer’s Disease and Parkinson’s disease.
NGF is comprised of three polypeptide chains, but only one, called beta, is
responsible for the nerve growth stimulating effect. A large molecule which
cannot be introduced peripherally into the human body, NGF must be directly
implanted into the targeted areas of the brain to achieve a therapeutic
benefit. One method uses donated skin cells, which are genetically mutated
to produce NGF. To avoid the necessity of brain surgery, some research
efforts are looking at emulating the effects of NGF in a smaller molecule
for clinical use (e.g. adenosine).
Potential benefits:
- Improved motor function
- Reduced cognitive impairment
- Elimination or significant reduction of medication
Risks:
- Weight loss
- Pain
- Tumor formation
- Brain hemorrhage
Obstacles:
- Patient post-trial safety
Current research:
- No current clinical trials listed by any agency.
[1] PharmaLicensing.com; Activation of Nerve Growth Factor Receptor Trophic Functions
[2] MedicineNet.com; MedTerms online
[3] Science Daily;
UNC
Scientists Discover Molecular Pathway Leading To Nerve Growth And
Regeneration; July 5, 2004; University Of North Carolina School Of
Medicine
[4] Science Daily;
UNC
Scientists Discover Molecular Pathway Leading To Nerve Growth And
Regeneration; July 5, 2004; University Of North Carolina School Of
Medicine
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