Pro-neurotrophin (typically followed by specific family member—e.g., "Pro-nerve growth factor" for proNGF, "Pro-brain-derived neurotrophic factor" for proBDNF) (None universally accepted for the overall group; specific members use "proNGF," "proBDNF," etc.)

Pro-neurotrophins are the inactive precursor forms of neurotrophins. After synthesis, they can undergo proteolytic cleavage to become mature neurotrophins, which generally promote neuronal survival and synaptic strength. However, pro-neurotrophins themselves have active roles, frequently binding with high affinity to the p75NTR (p75 neurotrophin receptor) and its co-receptor sortilin. This interaction typically triggers apoptosis and neuronal degeneration, in contrast to the protective effect of mature neurotrophins signaling through Trk receptors[2][3][4]. Pro-neurotrophins have important and sometimes pathogenic roles in neurodegenerative states such as Alzheimer’s disease (where proNGF is increased and implicated in cell death), and in conditions such as HIV neurotoxicity. The receptors and processing mechanisms involving pro-neurotrophins are considered promising therapeutic targets but also raise safety concerns due to their potent induction of apoptosis[4][5][6]. Note: For structured mapping, "Pro-neurotrophin" should be specified to the exact member (e.g., proNGF, proBDNF, etc.) when possible for precision. The generic term describes a group of precursor proteins within the neurotrophin family rather than a single distinct molecular target[1][4][6].

Other names

proNTproNGFproBDNFproNT3proNT4/5

Drugs/ligands interfere with pro-neurotrophin binding to p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) and sortilin, modulating cell death signaling pathways. Modulation of processing from precursor to mature neurotrophin, influencing the balance of cell survival versus death.