Skip to main content
PepStack
Hormone · Profile

Nerve Growth Factor

NGF · Beta-NGF

Growth FactorsApproved
MW
325.27g/mol
Formula
C11H19NO10

Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) is a neurotrophin, primarily produced in the nervous system, that plays a crucial role in the survival and differentiation of neurons. Researchers primarily study NGF for its involvement in neurodevelopment, nociception, and its emerging roles in mesenchymal stem/stromal cell function and reproductive physiology. Key findings indicate that NGF interacts with its receptors, TrkA and p75NTR, influencing various cellular processes, including the survival and differentiation of stem cells, and has been identified as a significant factor in ovulation induction in certain mammals. Additionally, studies suggest that NGF is implicated in the regulation of immune responses and inflammation, particularly in tissue repair mechanisms. Current research continues to explore NGF's multifaceted roles, highlighting its potential clinical relevance in regenerative medicine and reproductive health.

Overview

Übersicht

Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), also known as Beta-NGF, is an endogenous protein primarily produced in the nervous system and reproductive tracts of various mammals. It belongs to the neurotrophin family, which plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of the nervous system. NGF is synthesized by both neuronal and non-neuronal tissues, including mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) and reproductive organs. Researchers have extensively studied its role in neural development and its presence in seminal plasma. NGF's primary physiological roles include promoting neuronal survival, differentiation, and sensory innervation. It is also involved in immunoregulation and tissue repair, particularly in the context of inflammation and hyperalgesia. In reproductive biology, NGF has been identified as an ovulation-inducing factor in camelids and is present in the seminal plasma of bulls and stallions, where it may influence reproductive processes. The mechanism of action of NGF involves binding to its high-affinity receptor TrkA and the low-affinity receptor p75NTR. This interaction triggers a cascade of intracellular signaling pathways that regulate cell survival, differentiation, and immune responses. In MSCs, NGF binding to TrkA is crucial for their survival and angiogenic functions. Pharmacokinetic properties of NGF, such as its half-life and metabolism, are not well-documented in the literature, and its bioavailability by various routes remains largely unknown. Clinically, NGF is not widely used as a therapeutic agent, and its regulatory status varies by region. Researchers continue to explore its potential applications in regenerative medicine and reproductive health, but it is not yet approved for specific clinical uses.

Chemical profile

Chemische Struktur

Chemical structure of Nerve Growth Factor
FormelC11H19NO10
Molekulargewicht325.27g/mol
CAS-Nummer1113-83-3
PubChem CID60160600
Mechanism

Wirkmechanismus

NGF acts primarily through its high-affinity receptor TrkA and low-affinity receptor p75NTR. Upon binding, it activates signaling pathways that promote neuronal survival, differentiation, and immune modulation. This includes pathways like PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK, which are crucial for cellular growth and survival.

Mechanism

Signalweg

Nerve growth factor (NGF) primarily exerts its effects through binding to two receptors: TrkA and p75NTR. Activation of TrkA initiates signaling cascades involving the PI3K/Akt pathway and the MAPK/ERK pathway, promoting cellular survival, growth, differentiation, and angiogenesis in mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs). p75NTR, while less understood, is implicated in modulating neurotrophic signaling and may influence apoptosis and inflammation, but the complete mechanism of action remains to be fully elucidated.

Half-Life & Pharmacokinetics

Pharmacokinetic data for NGF is limited, and specific half-life information is not well-documented.

Storage

Temperature

Refrigerate at 2-8C

Light

Protect from light

Form

Aqueous solution: use within specified period after opening

Notes

Ensure proper storage to maintain protein stability.

Solubility

Löslichkeit

NGF is soluble in aqueous solutions, which is relevant for its formulation in research and therapeutic contexts.

Legal Status

🇩🇪DE

Data limited

🇺🇸US

Data limited

🇦🇺AU

Data limited

🇬🇧UK

Data limited

Legal status information is provided for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulatory changes. Always verify with official government sources before making any decisions.

Open Questions

Offene Forschungsfragen

Current evidence is limited regarding the specific mechanisms by which nerve growth factor (NGF) influences mesenchymal stem/stromal cell (MSC) functions, particularly in the context of their therapeutic applications. Further research is needed to elucidate the roles of NGF receptors, TrkA and p75NTR, in MSC behavior and to explore the long-term effects of NGF on MSC engraftment and differentiation in various degenerative diseases. Additionally, the contradictory findings surrounding NGF's role in reproductive physiology, particularly its luteotropic effects and interactions with other reproductive hormones in different species, warrant larger, controlled studies to clarify its mechanisms and potential applications in reproductive health.

154 Research Publications

5,122

Total Citations

24

Human/RCT

3.0

Avg. Influence

2025

Latest

Sort
Filter
#01

Nerve growth factor and nociception.

AnimalInfluence20.0
545
Researchers observed that nerve growth factor (NGF) is essential for the survival and normal development of nociceptive sensory neurons during development and plays a role in linking inflammation to hyperalgesia in adulthood.
#02

Controlled release of nerve growth factor from a heparin-containing fibrin-based cell ingrowth matrix.

In VitroInfluence10.0
414
The study demonstrated that a heparin-containing fibrin matrix can control the release of beta-nerve growth factor, enhancing neurite extension in a cell culture model.
#03

Nerve Growth Factor and Pain Mechanisms.

Denk Franziska, et al. · Annual review of neuroscience · 2017

ReviewInfluence12.0
238
The review summarized that nerve growth factor (NGF) antagonism shows promise as an analgesic treatment for conditions like osteoarthritis, although concerns about joint safety signals remain.

Key findings

  1. 01NGF antagonism shows promise as a pain relief treatment.
  2. 02There is still much to learn about NGF's role in persistent pain.
  3. 03Potential side effects of anti-NGF therapy need further investigation.
#04

Multiple sclerosis patients express increased levels of beta-nerve growth factor in cerebrospinal fluid.

AnimalInfluence3.0
229
Researchers observed that multiple sclerosis patients exhibit significantly increased levels of beta-nerve growth factor in cerebrospinal fluid during acute attacks compared to controls, indicating its role in the inflammatory response.
#05

Nerve Growth Factor: Early Studies and Recent Clinical Trials.

ReviewInfluence6.0
188
The review highlighted that nerve growth factor (NGF) has significant therapeutic properties for various conditions, including ocular and cutaneous diseases, based on extensive clinical studies.
#06

Nerve growth factor as an angiogenic factor.

ReviewInfluence8.0
179
The study demonstrated that nerve growth factor (NGF) functions as a novel angiogenic factor, influencing endothelial cell survival and function in the cardiovascular system.
#07

Nerve growth factor induces mast cell degranulation without changing intracellular calcium levels.

AnimalInfluence1.0
135
The study demonstrated that nerve growth factor induces mast cell degranulation in a dose-dependent manner without altering intracellular calcium levels.
#08

Nerve growth factor: stimulation of polymorphonuclear leukocyte chemotaxis in vitro.

In Vitro
123
The study demonstrated that nerve growth factor is chemotactic for human polymorphonuclear leukocytes in vitro, suggesting a role in the inflammatory response to injury.
#09

Developmental regulation of nerve growth factor and its receptor in the rat caudate-putamen.

AnimalInfluence1.0
122
Researchers observed that endogenous nerve growth factor expression in the rat caudate-putamen is temporally regulated and correlates with cholinergic neurochemical differentiation.
#10

beta-Nerve growth factor (beta NGF) receptors on glial cells. Cell-cell interaction between neurones and Schwann cells in cultures of chick sensory ganglia.

In Vitro
115
Researchers observed that beta-NGF receptors are expressed on non-neuronal cells in chick sensory ganglia, indicating their role in neuron-Schwann cell interactions.

Clinical Trials (26)

Preclinical
Phase I
Phase II
Phase III
Approved

26

Total Trials

2,253

Total Enrolled

Effect of EA Combined With NGF on Limb Function in Convalescent Patients With Ischemic Stroke

Sponsor

The Third Affiliated hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University

Enrollment

120

Started

2022

Primary outcome

the modified Rankin Score

Ischemic Stroke

Assessment of the Effects of Extensive Somatosensory Training on Pain Processing

NCT04457466TERMINATED
Sponsor

Aalborg University

Enrollment

100

Started

2017

Primary outcome

Pain rating

Musculoskeletal Pain

Treatment of Cerebral Radiation Necrosis (CRN) With Nerve Growth Factor (NGF)

NCT02032147COMPLETED
Sponsor

Fudan University

Enrollment

30

Started

2009

Primary outcome

efficacy of using NGF for treating CRN

Cerebral NecrosisNashopharyngeal CancerNerve Growth Factor

Cortical Neuroplasticity by Muscle Pain of Pain-induced Plasticity

NCT03354624COMPLETED
Sponsor

Aalborg University

Enrollment

24

Started

2017

Primary outcome

Pain rating

Nerve Growth FactorExerciseMotor ActivityAbnormality of SSEPsHyperalgesia

An 8-week Follow-up to Evaluate the Renewal of Corneal Nerves Structure and Function in Patients With Neurotrophic Keratopathy Treated With Recombinant Human Nerve Growth Factor (rhNGF) Eyedrops

NCT04293549COMPLETED
Sponsor

G. d'Annunzio University

Enrollment

18

Started

2018

Primary outcome

Changes of sub-basal nerve density, diameter and number of nerve branches

Neurotrophic Keratopathy

Effect of Specific Mode Electroacupuncture Stimulation Combined with NGF on Dysphagia After Ischaemic Stroke: a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

NCT06737549Phase 4RECRUITING
Sponsor

The Third Affiliated hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University

Enrollment

144

Started

2024

Primary outcome

Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS)

Ischemic StrokeDysphagia

Clinical Observation for the Therapeutic Effect of mNGF on Cognitive Decline in Cerebral Small Vessel Disease

NCT04041349Phase 4UNKNOWN
Sponsor

Zhujiang Hospital

Enrollment

50

Started

2019

Primary outcome

change of Alzheimer's disease assessment scale-cognition (ADAS-cog) score

Cerebral Small Vessel Diseases

Nerve Growth Factor Encapsulated With 2-methacryloyloxyethyl Phosphorylcholine Nanocapsules in the Treatment of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

NCT06391645Phase 2/3NOT_YET_RECRUITING
Sponsor

Beijing Tiantan Hospital

Enrollment

60

Started

2024

Primary outcome

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R)

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

A Safety and Efficacy Study of 2 Dosing Regimens of Recombinant Human Nerve Growth Factor (rhNGF) Eye Drop Solution Compared With Vehicle in Patients With Dry Eye Disease.

NCT06244316Phase 2COMPLETED
Sponsor

Dompé Farmaceutici S.p.A

Enrollment

317

Started

2024

Primary outcome

Mean Change From Baseline to Week 8 in Symptoms of Dry Eye Assessed by Symptom Assessment in Dry Eye (SANDE) Global Score

Dry Eye Disease

A Phase II, Double-Blind Trial of Recombinant Human Nerve Growth Factor for Treatment of HIV-Associated Sensory Neuropathy

NCT00000842Phase 2COMPLETED
Sponsor

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

Enrollment

270

HIV InfectionsPeripheral Nervous System Disease

A 8 Weeks Study to Evaluate Efficacy & Safety of rhNGF vs Vehicle in Patients After Cataract and Refractive Surgery

NCT03035864Phase 2COMPLETED
Sponsor

Dompé Farmaceutici S.p.A

Enrollment

180

Started

2017

Primary outcome

Change From Baseline in SANDE Scores for Frequency and Severity Assessed at 8 Weeks of Treatment.

Ocular Discomfort

An 8-week Study to Evaluate Safety and Efficacy of NGF Eye Drops Solution Versus Vehicle in Patients With Dry Eye

NCT03019627Phase 2COMPLETED
Sponsor

Dompé Farmaceutici S.p.A

Enrollment

150

Started

2017

Primary outcome

Symptom Assessment in Dry Eye (SANDE) Scores

Dry Eye

Effects of Intranasal Nerve Growth Factor for Traumatic Brain Injury

NCT01212679Phase 2COMPLETED
Sponsor

Jinling Hospital, China

Enrollment

106

Started

2010

Primary outcome

improved neurological functions

Traumatic Brain Injury

Cerebrolysin Neural Repair Therapy in Children With Traumatic Brain Injury and Cerebral Palsy

NCT02116348Phase 2UNKNOWN
Sponsor

Ain Shams University

Enrollment

100

Started

2014

Primary outcome

neurodevelopment

Cerebral Palsy ChildrenChildren With Traumatic Brain InjuryMental HandicapDelayed Speech Development

Nerve Growth Factor Eye Drops Treatment in Patients With Retinitis Pigmentosa and Cystoid Macular Edema

NCT02609165Phase 2COMPLETED
Sponsor

Ospedale San Raffaele

Enrollment

45

Started

2015

Primary outcome

macular thickness

Retinitis PigmentosaCystoid Macular Edema

Safety and Efficacy of rhNGF Eye Drops at Different Doses in Patients With Dry Eye

NCT02101281Phase 2COMPLETED
Sponsor

Dompé Farmaceutici S.p.A

Enrollment

40

Started

2014

Primary outcome

Change From Baseline in Frequency of Dry Eye Symptoms (SANDE)

Dry Eye Syndrome

Phase I Study of sss40 Injection for Moderate-to-Severe Bone Metastatic Cancer Pain

NCT07008703Phase 1/2RECRUITING
Sponsor

Shenyang Sunshine Pharmaceutical Co., LTD.

Enrollment

132

Started

2024

Primary outcome

Incidence and severity of adverse events (AEs) and serious adverse events (SAEs) Events (NCI-CTCAE V5.0)

Cancer Pain

A Dose Ranging Study to Evaluate the Safety and Potential Efficacy of rhNGF in Patients With Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP)

NCT02110225Phase 1/2COMPLETED
Sponsor

Dompé Farmaceutici S.p.A

Enrollment

50

Started

2014

Primary outcome

Number of Participants With Serious and Non-Serious Adverse Events

Retinitis Pigmentosa

The Phase I Study of Recombinant Human Nerve Growth Factor Injection

NCT04232332Phase 1UNKNOWN
Sponsor

Beijing Tongren Hospital

Enrollment

86

Started

2019

Primary outcome

Incidence of adverse events

Injury of Optic Nerve

Study to Evaluate Safety, Tolerability and Pharmacokinetics of rhNGF Eye Drops in Healthy Volunteers

NCT01744704Phase 1COMPLETED
Sponsor

Dompé Farmaceutici S.p.A

Enrollment

74

Started

2012

Primary outcome

Changes in VAS Ocular Tolerability

Healthy

Study to Evaluate Safety and Efficacy of rhNGF Eye Drops Solution Versus Vehicle in Patients With Glaucoma

NCT02855450Phase 1COMPLETED
Sponsor

Dompé Farmaceutici S.p.A

Enrollment

60

Started

2016

Primary outcome

Incidence of Events as of Primary Safety Outcomes

Glaucoma

Study to Evaluate Safety, Tolerability & PK of rhNGF in Healthy Volunteers

NCT03836859Phase 1COMPLETED
Sponsor

Dompé Farmaceutici S.p.A

Enrollment

30

Started

2018

Primary outcome

Number of Treatment Emergent Adverse Events (TEAEs).

Healthy Volunteers

Encapsulated Cell Biodelivery of Nerve Growth Factor to Alzheimer´s Disease Patients

NCT01163825Phase 1UNKNOWN
Sponsor

NsGene A/S

Enrollment

6

Started

2008

Primary outcome

Adverse events

Alzheimer's Disease

Interaction Between NGF and Acute Exercise-induced Ischemia

NCT03470038Early Phase 1COMPLETED
Sponsor

Aalborg University

Enrollment

21

Started

2018

Primary outcome

Muscle sensitivity

HyperalgesiaPain ResponseHealthy Subjects

Exercise-induced Ischemia and the Influence of Pain Modulation in a Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) Model

NCT03844243Early Phase 1UNKNOWN
Sponsor

Aalborg University

Enrollment

20

Started

2019

Primary outcome

Muscle pain sensitivity (PPTs values) assessed by pressure algometer

Pain ResponseHyperalgesiaHealthy Subjects

Spread of Muscle Hyperalgesia and Pain in a Low Dose NGF-induced Pain Model

NCT03217942Early Phase 1COMPLETED
Sponsor

Aalborg University

Enrollment

20

Started

2017

Primary outcome

Muscle sensitivity

HyperalgesiaHealthy Subjects

Track your hormone research in PepStack

Log cycles, set reminders and visualize serum levels.

Legal Disclaimer

This page is for informational and research purposes only. All information is based on published scientific literature and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Many substances listed may not be approved for human use and may be subject to drug regulation laws (e.g., AMG in Germany, FDA in the US). PepStack does not encourage the use of any substance on humans. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. Use of this information is entirely at your own risk. PepStack assumes no liability for the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the content provided. Full disclaimer