Nerve growth factor (Canis lupus familiaris) (NGF)

Canine nerve growth factor (NGF) is a specialized protein belonging to the neurotrophin family that is essential for the growth, maintenance, and survival of specific populations of neurons, particularly sensory and sympathetic neurons [1]. While critical during development, in adult dogs, NGF acts as a key mediator in the pathophysiology of chronic pain. It is upregulated in response to tissue injury and inflammation, where it binds to receptors on nociceptors to enhance pain signaling and contribute to peripheral and central sensitization [3]. In veterinary medicine, canine NGF has become a primary therapeutic target for managing pain associated with degenerative joint diseases like osteoarthritis. By utilizing species-specific monoclonal antibodies such as bedinvetmab to neutralize circulating NGF, clinicians can provide long-acting analgesia that improves mobility and quality of life in canine patients [2][4].

Other names

Beta-nerve growth factorNGFBBeta-NGFNerve growth factor beta polypeptide

Bedinvetmab is a canine-specific monoclonal antibody that binds to canine nerve growth factor (NGF), preventing it from interacting with its high-affinity receptor, Tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA), and the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) on nociceptive neurons, thereby inhibiting the transmission of pain signals and reducing neurogenic inflammation [2][3].