Nerve growth factor
Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) is a protein that is essential for the growth, maintenance, and survival of certain nerve cells (neurons). It is a member of the neurotrophin family of growth factors, which also includes brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neurotrophin-3 (NT-3), and neurotrophin-4 (NT-4).
Pronunciation
Nerve Growth Factor is pronounced as /nɜːrv groʊθ ˈfæk.tər/
Etymology
The term "Nerve Growth Factor" was coined in the mid-20th century, following the discovery of the protein's role in the development and maintenance of the nervous system. The term combines "nerve", referring to the cells that the protein affects, "growth", indicating its role in promoting cell development, and "factor", a general term for substances that produce a particular effect in the body.
Function
NGF plays a crucial role in the survival and maintenance of sympathetic and sensory neurons. Without NGF, these neurons undergo apoptosis, or programmed cell death. It also plays a role in the regulation of the immune system.
Related Terms
- Neurotrophin: A family of proteins that induce the survival, development, and function of neurons.
- Apoptosis: The death of cells which occurs as a normal and controlled part of an organism's growth or development.
- Immune system: A complex network of cells, tissues, organs, and the substances they make that helps the body fight infections and other diseases.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Nerve growth factor
- Wikipedia's article - Nerve growth factor
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