NGF - NOT JUST FOR NEURONS

Nerve growth factor (NFF) is the prototypic member of-a family of rela ted neurotrophins (Nts). Although originally defined by its actions in the peripheral and central nervous systems, recent data indicate the presence of extensive interactions between NGF and the endocrine and i mmune systems steroid hormones are able to modulate the neurosomal exp ression of NGF, while functional NGF receptors have been detected on c ells of the immune system, and increased levels of NGF protein are fou nd during the acute phase of diseases with a significant inflammatory component. These wider functions are likely to be of concern in any at tempted therapeutic use of NGF.