Neudesin neurotrophic factor (NENF)

Neudesin neurotrophic factor (NENF) is a secreted neurotrophic protein predominantly expressed in the central nervous system, with important roles in neuronal differentiation, survival, neurogenesis, and regulation of food intake. It belongs to the MAPR family and contains a cytochrome b5-like heme/steroid-binding domain essential for its activity. Neudesin activates MAPK and PI3K signaling pathways, possibly through a G protein-coupled receptor, although its specific receptor has not been identified. It exerts anorexigenic effects in the hypothalamus, is involved in maintaining hippocampal anxiety circuitry, and is expressed in various tissues, including adipose. Neudesin is overexpressed in several human cancers, where it may have oncogenic functions. Despite its multi-functional roles, no drugs are currently known to target neudesin directly, and the safety of manipulating its activity remains theoretical.

Other names

NeudesinCIR2SPUFSCIRP10Cell immortalization-related protein 2Neuron-derived neurotrophic factorProtein GIG47Secreted protein of unknown functionSpinal cord injury related protein 10Cell growth-inhibiting protein 47

No drugs are known to target neudesin directly. Endogenous neudesin acts via activation of MAPK and PI3K pathways, possibly through interaction with (yet unidentified) G protein-coupled receptors or heme-binding.