Nerve Growth Factor: A Focus on Neuroscience and Therapy

Abstract

Nerve growth factor (NGF) is the firstly discovered and best characterized neurotrophic factor, known to play a critical protective role in the development and survival of sympathetic, sensory and forebrain cholinergic neurons. NGF promotes neuritis outgrowth both in vivo and in vitro and nerve cell recovery after ischemic, surgical or chemical injuries. Recently, the therapeutic property of NGF has been demonstrated on human cutaneous and corneal ulcers, pressure ulcer, glaucoma, maculopathy and retinitis pigmentosa. NGF eye drops administration is well tolerated, with no detectable clinical evidence of systemic or local adverse effects. The aim of this review is to summarize these biological properties and the potential clinical development of NGF.

Fig. (1)

NGF target cells (NTC). Cell types belonging to nervous and immune system as well as some structural cells, all previously reported to be receptive (NGFR-bearing cells) and producers of NGF, are drawn in panel A. Crosstalk occurs via interplays with the other soluble factors, comprising cytokines, neuropeptides, growth as well as angiogenic/angiostatic factors, and other cell mediators, including soluble receptors. The main recognized functional activities are summarized in B. Abbreviations: RGCs, retinal ganglion cells; BPCs, bipolar cells; FBs/myoFBs, Fibroblast/myofibroblast.

Fig. (2)

NGF and Clinical applications. The scheme summarizes the old (green), recent (blue) and future (brown) NGF applications. Citations are reported in brackets.

Fig. (3)

NGF and visual system. NGF eye-drop application results in different effects from the anterior to the posterior segment. The scheme summarizes all the cells responsive to NGF eye-drop instillation. Abbreviations: ECs, epithelial cells; EndC, endothelial cell; RGCs, retinal ganglion cells; BCs, bipolar cells; KEs, keratocytes.