Nerve growth factor (NGF) is initially in a complex of 3 proteins – α-NGF, β-NGF, and γ-NGF when expressed. This form of NGF is also referred to as proNGF (NGF precursor). The γ subunit of this complex acts as a serine protease, and cleaves the N-terminal of the β subunit, thereby activating the protein into functional NGF. The term “Nerve Growth Factor” usually refers to the β subunit of the protein. NGF is a neuropeptide primarily involved in the regulation of growth, maintenance, proliferation, and survival of certain target neurons.
NGF appears to promote myelin repair. Hence NGF may be useful for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. NGF could also be involved in various psychiatric disorders, such as dementia, depression, schizophrenia, autism, Rett syndrome, anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa. Dysregulation of NGF signaling has also been linked to Alzheimer’s disease.