Nerve growth factor receptor tyrosine-protein kinase TrkA (TrkA)

Nerve growth factor receptor tyrosine-protein kinase TrkA (TrkA) is a member of the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) family, specifically the neurotrophin receptor subgroup[1][4][6]. It is encoded by the NTRK1 gene. TrkA is the high-affinity receptor for nerve growth factor (NGF), and upon ligand binding it dimerizes and activates intracellular kinase activity, leading to autophosphorylation of tyrosine residues and initiation of multiple downstream signaling pathways regulating neuronal survival, differentiation, and synaptic function. TrkA is critical for development and maintenance of the nervous system. Aberrant activation of TrkA—particularly by oncogenic gene fusions—plays a pathogenic role in certain cancers, making it a well-validated therapeutic target for tyrosine kinase inhibitor drugs. Its normal role and wide tissue distribution necessitate careful monitoring of safety and resistance in therapeutic applications[1][4][5][6][7].

Other names

Tropomyosin receptor kinase ANeurotrophic tyrosine kinase receptor type 1NTRK1TrkA receptorNerve growth factor receptor (NGFR, though this refers more commonly to p75NTR, see context)

Inhibition of TrkA’s kinase activity (prevention of autophosphorylation and downstream signaling) Blockade of neurotrophin (NGF) binding-induced receptor activation Induction of apoptosis in cancer cells with activated/fusion NTRK1