NGF / NGFB Protein

Nerve growth factor (NGF) is important for the development and maintenance of the sympathetic and sensory nervous systems. NGF protein was identified as a large complex consisting of three non-covalently linked subunits, α, β, and γ, among which, the β subunit, called β-NGF (beta-NGF), was demonstrated to exhibits the growth-stimulating activity of NGF protein. NGFB/beta-NGF gene is a member of the NGF-beta family and encodes a secreted protein that homodimerizes and is incorporated into a larger complex. NGF protein acts via at least two receptors on the surface of cells (TrkA and p75 receptors) to regulate neuronal survival, promote neurite outgrowth, and up-regulate certain neuronal functions such as mediation of pain and inflammation. Also, previous studies indicated that NGF may also have an important role in the regulation of the immune system.