| Neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) | |
|---|---|
| Gene | [NTF3](/genes/ntf3) |
| UniProt | P20783 |
| PDB | 1B8M |
| Mol. Weight | 13.6 kDa (precursor), 28.5 kDa (mature dimer) |
| Localization | Secreted, extracellular |
| Family | Neurotrophin family |
| Receptors | [TrkC](/proteins/trkc) (primary), [p75NTR](/proteins/p75ntr) |
| Diseases | [Alzheimer's Disease](/diseases/alzheimers), [Parkinson's Disease](/diseases/parkinsons-disease), [Huntington's Disease](/diseases/huntingtons) |
Neurotrophin 3 (Nt 3) is an important component in the neurobiology of neurodegenerative diseases. This page provides detailed information about its structure, function, and role in disease processes.
Neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) is a member of the neurotrophin family of growth factors that includes nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and neurotrophin-4/5 (NT-4). NT-3 plays crucial roles in the development, survival, and function of the nervous system, with particular importance for sensory neurons, sympathetic neurons, and certain populations of central nervous system neurons.[1]
NT-3 is synthesized as a precursor protein (pre-pro-NT-3) that undergoes proteolytic processing to generate the mature, biologically active form. Like other neurotrophins, NT-3 forms homodimers that are secreted and signal through specific receptor tyrosine kinases.[2]
The protein structure consists of:
During development, NT-3 supports the survival and differentiation of various neuronal populations, including:
NT-3 modulates synaptic transmission and plasticity in the mature nervous system. It influences:
NT-3 provides neuroprotective effects against various insults:
In Alzheimer's disease, NT-3 levels are altered in affected brain regions. Studies show:
NT-3 shows promise in Parkinson's disease research:
NT-3 is considered a therapeutic target in Huntington's disease:
NT-3 and its analogs have been investigated for:
The study of Neurotrophin 3 (Nt 3) has evolved significantly over the past decades. Research in this area has revealed important insights into the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration and continues to drive therapeutic development.
Historical context and key discoveries in this field have shaped our current understanding and will continue to guide future research directions.