MANF

MANF is a secreted neurotrophic factor that is expressed in brain, neuronal and certain non-neuronal tissues. It has been shown to promote survival, growth and function of dopamine specific neurons. MANF and its structural homolog CDNF, each contain an N-terminal saposin-like lipid binding domain, and a carboxyl-terminal domain, which is not homologous to previously characterized protein structures. MANF and CDNF can prevent 6-OHDA induced degeneration of dopaminergic neurons by triggering survival pathways in a rat experimental model of Parkinson disease. Recombinant human MANF is an 18.1 kDa protein consisting of 158 amino acids including 8 cysteine residues.