Recombinant human NT-4 protein (Active)

Supplementary information

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

NT-4 also known as Neurotrophin-4 is a member of the neurotrophin family of proteins. It has a molecular mass of around 14 kDa. NT-4 is expressed in both the central and peripheral nervous systems with significant presence in the brain particularly in regions such as the cortex and hippocampus. This protein acts through binding to the TrkB receptor and plays a direct role in supporting neuronal survival and differentiation.

Biological function summary

NT-4 regulates the growth and maturation of neurons. It is a part of the neurotrophin signaling complex which includes other family members like brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF). By promoting axonal growth and synaptic plasticity NT-4 influences both embryonic neurodevelopment and adult neural adaptations. Its functions are important for maintaining the health of neurons and overall brain function.

Pathways

NT-4 is involved in the neurotrophin signaling pathway and MAPK pathway. It interacts with the TrkB receptor to activate signaling cascades that regulate neuronal survival and plasticity. In these pathways proteins like PIK3CA and MAPK1 interact with NT-4 facilitating its role in signal transduction that influences neural activities and responses to external stimuli.

NT-4 is linked to neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In Alzheimer's disease NT-4 in association with BDNF influences neuronal survival and synaptic maintenance which are often compromised as the disease progresses. In ALS interactions between NT-4 and TrkB receptors may affect motor neuron health and survival therefore playing a role in disease pathology. Understanding these relationships can shed light on potential therapeutic strategies.