Brain-derived neurotrophic factor receptor tyrosine kinase B (TrkB)

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor receptor tyrosine kinase B (TrkB) is a high-affinity cell surface receptor predominantly expressed in neurons of the central and peripheral nervous system. TrkB is the principal receptor for brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF); upon ligand binding, TrkB dimerizes and autophosphorylates, initiating intracellular signaling through multiple pathways—including MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and PLCγ—which together regulate neuronal survival, differentiation, synaptic growth, and plasticity[1][3][4][5]. TrkB activation is essential for neurodevelopment and the response to injury, while dysregulation of BDNF/TrkB signaling is implicated in neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases[2][4][5]. Therapies targeting TrkB aim to modulate these pathways for neuroprotection or regeneration, but clinical application faces challenges related to delivery, specificity, and safety[6].

Other names

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor receptorTrkBtropomyosin receptor kinase BNTRK2 (gene symbol)tyrosine kinase receptor type BBDNF receptor

Agonists: Induce dimerization and autophosphorylation of the TrkB receptor, activating downstream survival and plasticity pathways (MAPK, PI3K-Akt, PLCγ). Antagonists: Block BDNF binding and receptor activation.