Neurotrophins

Neurotrophins

Neurotrophins (pronounced: /ˌnʊərəʊˈtrɒfɪnz/) are a family of proteins that induce the survival, development, and function of neurons. They belong to a class of growth factors, secreted proteins that can signal particular cells to survive, differentiate, or grow.

Etymology

The term "neurotrophin" is derived from the Greek words neuron, meaning nerve, and trophe, meaning nourishment.

Types of Neurotrophins

Neurotrophins include:

• Nerve Growth Factor (NGF)
• Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)
• Neurotrophin-3 (NT-3)
• Neurotrophin-4 (NT-4)

Function

Neurotrophins are crucial for the growth and survival of neurons during development and for the maintenance of adult neurons. They also play a role in neuroplasticity, which is the ability of the brain to adapt to changes in the environment.

Related Terms

• Neuron
• Neuroplasticity
• Growth Factor
• Protein

See Also

• Neuroscience
• Neurology
• Psychiatry

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Neurotrophins
• Wikipedia's article - Neurotrophins

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