Endogenous neurotrophin synthesis pathway

The endogenous neurotrophin synthesis pathway is a complex biological process responsible for the production and maturation of neurotrophic factors, including Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), Neurotrophin-3 (NT-3), and Neurotrophin-4 (NT-4) (Huang & Reichardt, 2001). These proteins are vital for neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and neurogenesis, acting through tropomyosin receptor kinases (Trk) and the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) (Lu et al., 2005). The pathway involves the transcription of neurotrophin genes, often regulated by the cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), and the subsequent proteolytic cleavage of pro-neurotrophin precursors by enzymes like furin or plasmin to generate active mature forms (Lessmann et al., 2003). Deficiencies in neurotrophin synthesis are implicated in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, as well as psychiatric conditions like major depressive disorder (Castrén & Rantamäki, 2010). Pharmacological agents, such as certain antidepressants and experimental neurotrophin inducers, target this pathway to restore neurotrophic support, thereby promoting neuroprotection and cognitive recovery (Nitta et al., 1993).

Other names

Neurotrophin production pathwayNeurotrophic factor synthesisBDNF/NGF signaling pathway

Induction of neurotrophin gene transcription and enhancement of precursor processing