Neurotrophic Factors

Neurotrophic factors (NTFs) are endogenous substances that control neurite outgrowth, neuronal cell differentiation, and survival. Most NTFs belong to one of three families: NGF family (also known as neurotrophins or NTs), the glial cell line–derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) family ligands (GFLs), and neuropoietic cytokines. Additionally, MANF/CDNF is a novel evolutionarily conserved neurotrophic factor family initially discovered by their neuroprotective activities in dopaminergic neurons. NTFs play important roles in both developments, where they can act as guidance cues for developing neurons, and in the mature nervous system, where they are involved in neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity and the formation of long-lasting memories. They have important roles also in non-neuronal tissues, and regulate, e.g., angiogenesis, kidney development, and spermatogenesis.