Recombinant Human Neurotrophin 3 protein

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Neurotrophin 3 also known as NT-3 or neurotrophin-3 is a protein with a molecular mass around 28 kDa. It belongs to the neurotrophin family and acts mechanically by binding to specific tyrosine kinase receptors especially TrkC on target cells. This binding initiates intracellular signaling cascades essential for neuronal development and survival. NT-3 is expressed in the central and peripheral nervous systems and is involved in various cellular processes. Expression levels can vary depending upon developmental stages and types of nervous tissue.

Biological function summary

NT-3 has a role in the survival and differentiation of neurons especially sensory ganglia neurons. It supports the development and maintenance of the nervous system by influencing neuron growth and plasticity. While not typically forming a large protein complex NT-3 interacts with its receptor TrkC to transmit critical signals internally. Such interactions can modulate synaptic responses and connectivity ultimately influencing learning and memory formation. NT-3 also interacts with p75NTR another receptor though this interaction is less specific compared to its action on TrkC.

Pathways

NT-3 participates in the MAPK/ERK signaling and PI3K/AKT pathways. These pathways are fundamental in regulating cell differentiation growth and survival. They also mediate a variety of cellular responses to external stimuli. NT-3's activation of the TrkC receptor triggers these pathways affecting other proteins such as BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and NGF (nerve growth factor) which are part of the neurotrophin family. The intricate web of interactions highlights NT-3's significance in pathway modulation involved in neurodevelopment and plasticity.

NT-3 has implications in neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s disease and Huntington's disease. The protein’s role in supporting neuronal survival points to its potential impact when its signaling is disrupted or deficient. NT-3 exhibits connections with proteins such as TrkC and BDNF which are also related to these neurodegenerative disorders. Dysfunctional NT-3-TrkC signaling could contribute to disease progression by impairing neuronal survival or recovery. Understanding NT-3's role in these contexts can offer insights into therapeutic approaches for such conditions.