Recombinant Human NTF3 protein

Neurotrophin-3 (NTF3), also known as NT-3. is a member of the neurotrophin family of growth factors that play critical roles in the development, maintenance, and function of the nervous system. Discovered in the early 1990s, NTF3 shares structural homology with other neurotrophins like nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and neurotrophin-4/5 (NT4/5). It binds selectively to the TrkC tyrosine kinase receptor and, with lower affinity, to the p75 neurotrophin receptor. NTF3 is essential for the survival, differentiation, and synaptic plasticity of specific neuronal populations, including proprioceptive sensory neurons, sympathetic neurons, and subsets of central nervous system neurons. Its functions extend beyond neurodevelopment, influencing processes like axonal guidance, myelination, and even non-neuronal tissues such as bone and heart.

Recombinant NTF3 protein is engineered using genetic recombination techniques, typically expressed in bacterial (e.g., E. coli) or mammalian cell systems to ensure proper folding and bioactivity. This allows large-scale production of highly purified, functional NTF3 for research and therapeutic applications. In basic research, recombinant NTF3 is used to study neurotrophic signaling pathways, model neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s), and explore regenerative strategies for nerve injuries. Therapeutically, it holds potential for treating neurological disorders, peripheral neuropathies, and spinal cord injuries, though clinical translation faces challenges like delivery efficiency and stability. Additionally, recombinant NTF3 serves as a tool in drug discovery, enabling the identification of small-molecule mimics or gene therapies targeting neurotrophin pathways. Its versatility underscores its importance in bridging mechanistic neurobiology and translational medicine.