p75 neurotrophin receptor and TrkA receptor (p75NTR, TrkA)

p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) and TrkA receptor are two major cell-surface receptors that mediate the activity of neurotrophins, such as nerve growth factor (NGF)[1][3]. p75NTR belongs to the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily and modulates cell survival, apoptosis, and neuronal growth; its activation can promote either cell death or survival depending on cellular context and interaction with Trk receptors. TrkA is a receptor tyrosine kinase, activated after binding NGF, which triggers downstream signaling pathways for neuronal growth, differentiation, and maintenance[1][3]. Both receptors are frequently co-expressed on neurons and other cells, where p75NTR modifies TrkA signaling, increasing its ligand specificity or altering affinity for NGF—this interaction is critical for fine-tuning neurotrophic responses, regulating neuronal fate, and is implicated in disease when dysregulated[1][2][3].

Other names

p75NTRNGFRCD271TrkANTRK1tropomyosin receptor kinase A

Drugs targeting TrkA usually act as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (block phosphorylation/signaling); p75NTR ligands/modulators affect receptor conformation and downstream apoptotic/survival pathways