Nerve growth factor

The nerve growth factor belongs to the family of growth factors. It induces the differentiation and proliferation of nerve cells during embryonic development. In adults, NGF induces the sprouting of nerves after injuries. In addition to peripheral effects, it stimulates the growth of cholinergic receptors. NGF is essential for the survival of sympathetic and sensitive neurons. Neurons are driven into apoptosis in the absence of NGF. NGF is biochemically speaking a polypeptide of 118 amino acids, part of the peptide being identical to proinsulin.

Inflammation, peripheral nerve injury and chronic nociceptive and neuropathic pain lead to elevated levels of NGF. By binding to tropomyosin receptor kinase A, NGF releases inflammatory mediators.

Tanezumab is the first NGF inhibitor in advanced clinical trials in patients. Tanezumab inhibits the effect of NGF and thus provides pain relief. The transmission of pain signals from muscle, skin and organs to the central nervous system is prevented.

A genetically engineered form of NGF has been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for the treatment of the rare and progressive eye disease keratitis neuroparalytica.