NTF3 cDNA Clone – Neurotrophin 3 (Human)

The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the neurotrophin family, that controls survival and differentiation of mammalian neurons. This protein is closely related to both nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor. It may be involved in the maintenance of the adult nervous system, and may affect development of neurons in the embryo when it is expressed in human placenta. NTF3-deficient mice generated by gene targeting display severe movement defects of the limbs. The mature peptide of this protein is identical in all mammals examined including human, pig, rat and mouse. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]

NT-3: Seems to promote the survival of visceral and proprioceptive sensory neurons. Belongs to the NGF-beta family. 2 isoforms of the human protein are produced by alternative splicing.

Protein type: Secreted, signal peptide; Secreted; Cytokine

Chromosomal Location of Human Ortholog: 12p13

Cellular Component: cytoplasmic membrane-bound vesicle; extracellular region

Molecular Function: chemoattractant activity; growth factor activity; neurotrophin p75 receptor binding; protein binding; receptor binding

Biological Process: activation of MAPK activity; activation of protein kinase B; cell-cell signaling; induction of positive chemotaxis; negative regulation of neuron apoptosis; negative regulation of peptidyl-tyrosine phosphorylation; nervous system development; neurite morphogenesis; positive regulation of cell migration; positive regulation of cell proliferation; positive regulation of peptidyl-serine phosphorylation; positive regulation of peptidyl-tyrosine phosphorylation; positive regulation of receptor internalization; regulation of apoptosis; regulation of neuron differentiation; signal transduction; transmembrane receptor protein tyrosine kinase signaling pathway